Quality of Life among Medical Students at the Clinical Levels at Sana'a University

Abstract

Abstract Background The World Health Organization (WHO) defines quality of life (QoL) as individuals' perceptions of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns. Starting clinical training means a new challenge that requires special capabilities in an unfavorable environment. We aimed to assess the (QoL) among medical students at the clinical levels at Sana'a University and correlate it with sociodemographic factors. Methodology : A descriptive cross-sectional study with a sample size of 371 medical students at the clinical levels and internship from January 1st to February 15th, 2023. We ran a stratified random sample and used the Arabic WHOQoL-BRE and a sociodemograhic questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences. Results The participants scored highest in the overall (QoL) (69.27 ± 20.77) and general health (67.70 ± 25.67). They scored lower in other domains in a descending manner: physical health (64.38 ± 15.73), social relationships (61.61 ± 22.70), psychological health (57.16 ± 15.31) and environment (48.63 ± 15.43). Leisure time (LT) was found to be the most important predicator of the QoL in all aspects, followed by family income in the overall (QoL), physical health and environment. Advancing age, male gender, being rural and living alone or in dorms scored poorly in the environment. Females scored better in the overall (QoL) than males. The social relationships were in favor of married students. Initial clinical levels scored poorly in terms of physical health. Conclusion Our participants have a relatively good overall (QoL) and general health. Nevertheless, they scored poorly in the psychological health and environment. Sufficient family income and (LT) are crucial to a better (QoL). We believe orientation programs, revised curricula, proper and adequate clinical training, level-compatible and objective exams and creating sources of income for interns would significantly improve their (QoL). Medical students at the clinical levels are in extreme need for (LT). Dorms should reconsider their services, and rural inhabitants need support from all.