Socioeconomic Determinants of Health-Related Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction During COVID-19 Pandemic in Hungary

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, declared in March 2020, caused severe global disruptions, with significant health and socioeconomic consequences. In Hungary, by May 2023, the pandemic led to over 2.2 million confirmed cases and nearly 49,000 deaths, prompting strict measures like lockdowns and travel restrictions. These efforts not only impacted health but also exacerbated existing inequalities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. The pandemic’s effects on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and subjective well-being (SWB) have been insufficiently explored, particularly in Hungary, where empirical research is scarce. HRQoL, a multifaceted measure including physical, psychological, and social well-being, was assessed using tools like the EQ-5D-5L. Prior research suggested that HRQoL is influenced by factors such as age, gender, education, income, and employment. COVID-19 introduced new stressors like infection experiences, prolonged isolation, and vaccination status, complicating these relationships. Additionally, SWB, reflecting life satisfaction and mental health, was severely affected by pandemic-induced isolation and economic instability. This study aimed to fill these gaps by analyzing how COVID-19 infection, the severity of infection, quarantine and vaccination status, and socioeconomic factors affected HRQoL and life satisfaction in Hungary. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined a global literature review with an empirical cross-sectional survey of 2,000 Hungarian adults conducted between May and June 2021. The survey included sociodemographic and COVID-related data, measuring HRQoL with the EQ-5D-5L, life satisfaction with the SWLS, and mental health with PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales. Results showed that severe COVID-19 infection, quarantine, and lower socioeconomic status were linked to worse HRQoL and life satisfaction. Women, older adults, and the unemployed were particularly affected. Vaccination and higher education were associated with better outcomes. The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to support vulnerable groups, enhance healthcare, and integrate mental health services in future health crises.