The association between perceived immune status, general health, and well-being

Introduction: As several diseases and illnesses are related to deficiencies in immune system functioning, it is suggested that perceived immune functioning may be closely related to various general health outcomes, and may thus have an impact on daily functioning and mood. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between perceived immune function, general health, daily functioning, and well-being in young adults. N = 2489 Dutch students (16.8% men, mean ± SD age 21.2 ± 2.1 years old) completed an online survey. To assess general health status, the Short-Form General Health Survey (SF-20) was completed. The SF-20 has six subscales, measuring physical functioning, daily functioning, social functioning, psychological functioning, perceived health, and physical pain. The WHO-5 Well-Being Index is a questionnaire consisting of 5 non-invasive questions, and was completed as measure of psychological well-being. Perceived immune functioning was rated on a scale ranging from 0 (very poor) to 10 (excellent). Results: Perceived immune functioning correlated significantly with subscales on physical functioning (r = -.253, P = .000), daily functioning (r = -.254, P = .0001), social functioning (r = .360, P = .0001), psychological functioning (r = .196, P = .0001), perceived health (r = .514, P = .0001), and physical pain (r = -.276, P = .0001), as well as the WHO-5 Well-Being Index (r = -.244, P = .0001). Conclusions: Significant associations were observed between perceived immune function, general health, daily functioning, and wellbeing.