Quality of life and well-being problems in secondary schoolgirls in Kenya: Prevalence, associated characteristics, and course predictors

Abstract

Background Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa often report low levels of quality of life (QoL) and well-being, but reliable data are limited. This study examines which sociodemographic, health, and behavioral risk factors and adverse adolescent experiences are associated with, and predictive of, QoL in Kenyan secondary schoolgirls. Methods and findings 3,998 girls at baseline in a randomised controlled trial in Siaya County, western Kenya were median age 17.1 years. Subjectively perceived physical, emotional, social and school functioning was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life (QoL) Inventory-23. Laboratory-confirmed and survey data were utilized to assess sociodemographic, health and behavioral characteristics, and adverse adolescent experiences. We identified a group of girls with Low QoL (n = 1126; 28.2%), Average QoL (n = 1445; 36.1%); and High QoL (n = 1427; 35.7%). Significantly higher scores on all well-being indicators in the LQoL compared with HQoL group indicated good construct validity (Odds Ratio’s (ORs) varying from 3.31 (95% CI:2.41–4.54, p < .001) for feeling unhappy at home to 11.88 (95%CI:7.96–17.74, p< .001) for PHQ9 defined possible caseness (probable diagnosis) of depression. Adverse adolescent experiences were independently statistically significant in the LQoL compared to the HQoL group for threats of family being hurt (aOR = 1.35,1.08–1.68, p = .008), sexual harassment out of school (aOR = 2.17,1.79–2.64, p < .001), and for menstrual problems like unavailability of sanitary pads (aOR = 1.23,1.05–1.44, p = .008) and stopping activities due to menstruation (aOR = 1.77,1.41–2.24, p < .001). After 2-years follow-up of 906 girls in the LQoL group, 22.7% persisted with LQoL. Forced sex (aOR = 1.56,1.05–2.32, p = .028) and threats of family being hurt (aOR = 1.98,1.38–2.82, p < .001) were independent predictors of persistent LQoL problems. Conclusions Persistent QoL problems in Kenyan adolescent girls are associated with adverse physical, sexual and emotional experiences and problems with coping with their monthly menstruation. A multi-factorial integral approach to reduce the rate of adverse adolescent experiences is needed, including provision of menstrual hygiene products. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03051789.