Determination of ameliorable health impairment influencing health-related quality of life among patients with silicosis in China: a cross-sectional study.

The association between health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and ameliorable health impairment was examined in 208 Chinese in-patients with silicosis, in April 2010. Median St George's Respiratory Questionnaire scores for symptom and activity impairment, social support rating scale and geriatric depression scale scores for patients were 57.24, 59.45, 35 and 5, respectively. Median 36-item short-form health survey physical component (PCS) and mental component (MCS) scores were 47.17 and 51.05, respectively. Lower than median PCS scores (< 47) were significantly associated with high levels of symptom and activity impairment. Lower than median MCS scores (< 51) were significantly associated with high levels of depression and activity impairment. Encouraging patients to participate in daily activities may alleviate activity impairment. Reasonable financial compensation may help to maintain and improve social support levels.