The impact of COVID-19 on quality of life among Lebanese adults: a cross-sectional study

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. First identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, the virus rapidly spread worldwide, leading to its designation as a global pandemic. Beyond its significant mortality toll, concerns have emerged regarding its negative impact on the quality of life (QoL).

Aims: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of fear of COVID-19 and its impact on QoL among Lebanese adults and identify sociodemographic, behavioral, and health-related predictors influencing fear of COVID-19 and QoL during the pandemic.

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between October and December 2022 using a snowball sampling technique. A total of 402 respondents participated in the study. Statistical analyses, including multiple regression models, were conducted to determine predictors of fear and QoL deterioration.

Results: The results demonstrated that 47% of participants experienced a negative impact on QoL, while 34% reported extreme fear of COVID-19. Key predictors of fear included education level (OR = 4.457, p = 0.028), number of household rooms (OR = 0.470, p = 0.048), and fear of limited access to treatment (OR = 0.865, p = 0.027). Factors associated with greater QoL deterioration included being female (OR = 2.239, p = 0.001), fear of limited access to treatment (OR = 3.032, p = 0.001), and having a worried family member (OR = 2.028, p = 0.016). Other significant predictors were household size, presence of mental illness, and emotional sharing with family or others. The study highlights the psychological and social burdens associated with COVID-19.

Conclusion: Therefore, the findings highlight the urgent need to enhance access to healthcare, social support, and wellness programs to strengthen resilience in Lebanon. Enhancing access to healthcare, strengthening social support systems, and implementing wellness programs are crucial in fostering resilience in Lebanon. Addressing these issues can mitigate the psychological and social burdens of COVID-19, improving overall wellbeing.