Latent class analysis of quality of life among patients with Kashin–Beck disease and its association with health literacy and social support

Kashin–Beck disease (KBD) is a chronic, deformative disorder that significantly reduces quality of life (QoL), yet the internal heterogeneity of QoL among individuals with KBD remains unclear. This study applied latent class analysis (LCA) to identify distinct subgroups of QoL. It explored their associations with health literacy and social support, aiming to provide evidence for improving QoL among people affected by KBD.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 485 adult patients diagnosed with KBD in Mishan City, Heilongjiang Province, using a cluster sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, including the EQ-5D-5 L, a health literacy scale, and a social support scale. Using the scores of the five EQ-5D-5 L dimensions as input variables, LCA was performed to identify the optimal number of subgroups. Multivariable logistic regression was then applied to examine factors associated with subgroup membership.

The QoL among patients with KBD was categorized into three latent classes: a well-adapted group (66.4%), a moderately restricted group (20.2%), and a severely impaired group (13.4%). Significant differences were observed among the groups in terms of health literacy, social support, annual household income, education level, type of medical insurance, and the frequency of dairy and egg consumption in the past seven days. These factors were significantly associated with the distribution of QoL classes.

Income, education level, type of medical insurance, frequency of dairy and egg consumption, social support, and health literacy significantly influence the QoL of patients with KBD.