Quality of life among traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in BANGLADESH

Abstract

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) has a significant impact on an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being, often leading to a decline in overall quality of life (QoL). This study aims to determine overall quality of life among Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) patients in Bangladesh, with a specific focus on impairments related to physical, mental, speech, cognition, and social participation. A quantitative cross sectional approach was adopted, utilizing the Quality of Life after Brain Injury (QOLIBRI-37) questionnaire to assess various aspects of QoL. Data were collected from 162 TBI patients receiving treatment at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) and Speech & Language Therapy Department, CRP-Savar. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics to examine the extent and severity of QoL impairments. Also, the Chi-Square Test (χ²) was used to analyze relationships between categorical variables. The results reveal that 66.0% of participants experience a poor QoL (impaired), while 25.3% fall within the borderline category, and only 8.6% report a good QoL. The most common challenges include severe headaches, memory impairment, fatigue, communication and swallowing difficulties, and social isolation. Moreover, the study underscores the critical role of speech and language impairments in diminishing QoL, emphasizing the necessity of targeted rehabilitation efforts. This study concludes that TBI has a profound and lasting effect on patients' overall well-being. The findings highlight the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation, particularly speech and language therapy, to facilitate better social reintegration and functional recovery. Strengthening policy measures and increasing public awareness are crucial for enhancing the support system available to TBI patients in Bangladesh. Keywords: Traumatic Brain Injury, Quality of Life, Rehabilitation, Speech and Language Therapy, Treatment of Patients.