Abstract
This study was conducted to elucidate factors that influence the self-evaluation of physical condition and perception of difficulties of life in ulcerative colitis patients. A survey and clinical examination were carried out in 171 outpatients with ulcerative colitis. Self-evaluation of physical condition was assessed according to a five-grade system. Perception of difficulties of life was assessed using a scale developed by the authors and others. Physical condition of patients was assessed according to their disease state, disease symptoms, and nutritional state. Additional related factors such as mental condition, demographic attributes, and psychosocial states were also investigated. Multiple regression analyses was used to assess the relationships among variables and showed that perception of difficulties of life and disease symptoms were the main explanatory factors for the self-evaluation of physical condition. Perception of difficulties of life was comprised of physical and mental conditions, the latter being further influenced by the patients' psychosocial state.