| Keywords |
Depression; Physical activity; HRQoL |
| Abstract |
This study aimed to examine the mediating effect of physical activity on the relationship between depression and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with hypertension or diabetes residing in Seoul. A secondary analysis was conducted using raw data from the 2022 Seoul Community Health Survey administered by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency. Of the 22,943 respondents, 6,878 individuals diagnosed with hypertension or diabetes were included in the final analysis. The average depression score was 11.75 ± 0.05, the mean physical activity level was 1,950.52 ± 34.27 MET-min/week, and the mean HRQoL score based on the EQ-5D index was 0.88 ± 0.002. Participants with both conditions showed higher levels of depression and lower levels of physical activity and HRQoL compared to those with only one condition. Significant differences in depression, physical activity, and HRQoL were also observed across residential districts in Seoul. Depression had a negative effect on HRQoL, while physical activity had a positive effect. Furthermore, physical activity partially mediated the relationship between depression and HRQoL, with a statistically significant effect (Z = ?9.37, p < 0.001), accounting for 27% of the model’s explanatory power.
These findings highlight the need for community-based interventions to promote physical activity, reduce depression, and enhance HRQoL among individuals with hypertension and diabetes. Tailored programs targeting those with both conditions and strategies to reduce regional disparities are especially recommended to maximize intervention effectiveness. |