[QUALITY OF LIFE AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LEG ULCER]

Area of Science:

• Wound Healing and Tissue Repair
• Patient-Reported Outcomes
• Public Health and Epidemiology

Background:

• Chronic wounds disrupt skin continuity, impacting patient quality of life, particularly in the elderly.
• Prevalence is rising due to aging populations and epidemics of diabetes and obesity.
• Understanding patient perceptions is key to defining health beyond disease absence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant burden of chronic wounds on patients and healthcare systems.
• To explore the multifaceted impact of chronic wounds on quality of life.
• To emphasize the need for individualized care beyond standard wound management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing data on chronic wound prevalence and impact.
• Analysis of quality of life domains affected by chronic wounds (physical, psychological, social).
• Discussion of psychological factors influencing wound healing and patient perception.

Main Results:

• Chronic wounds decrease quality of life through reduced mobility, pain, odor, sleep issues, and social isolation.
• Depression, anxiety, and frustration are common psychological reactions impacting healing.
• Patient perception of illness significantly influences their overall quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Chronic wounds represent a major public health challenge with increasing prevalence.
• A holistic approach is needed, integrating wound management with patient-centered psychological and social support.
• Future efforts should focus on individual patient needs within their life context for better outcomes.