Factors Affecting Health-Related Quality of Life of School-Going Children and Its Perceived Impact on Educational Outcomes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62843/jssr.v6i2.727Keywords:
Health-Related Quality of Life, HRQoL, Children, Educational Outcomes, Environmental Conditions, Socioeconomic Status, Parental PerceptionAbstract
This study investigated the factors affecting Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of school-going children aged 6–14 years and its impact on educational outcomes, as perceived by mothers in Tehsil Faisalabad of city Faisalabad, Pakistan. The study was conducted in the Colony Punjab Government Servant Housing Society. The total residential units in the society was 1200 out of which sample of 120 household mothers were selected by using purposive sampling technique. Using a cross-sectional quantitative design, data were collected from 120 respondents through structured questionnaire employing a 5-point Likert scale. Four major factors were examined: health-related factors, socioeconomic status, environmental conditions and educational outcomes. Findings revealed that among health-related factors, regular physical activity was rated most influential (Mean = 4.27), followed by eating habits (Mean = 4.20) and adequate sleep (Mean = 4.17). Regarding socioeconomic status, availability of proper clothing and school materials received the highest agreement (Mean = 4.07), while limited family income was least acknowledged (Mean = 3.00). Among environmental factors, access to safe drinking water ranked highest (Mean = 4.34), while reduced outdoor activity due to poor environmental conditions ranked lowest (Mean = 3.67). In terms of educational impact, parents most strongly agreed that good physical health improves school performance (Mean = 4.32), while poor nutrition affecting learning ability received comparatively lower agreement (Mean = 3.67). However, for future research Integrated school-based health screening programs and community-level nutrition awareness campaigns are recommended to improve children's HRQoL. Local authorities should also ensure safe environmental conditions and incorporate mental health awareness into school curricula to enhance children's academic performance.
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