Factors Affecting Quality of Life Among Thalassemia Patients Sana’a-Yemen

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of the factors associated with quality of life (HRQOL) among patients with thalassemia is essential in developing more suitable clinical, counseling, and social support programs to improve treatment outcomes of these patients. this study aims to examine factors associated with HRQOL among thalassemic patients in Yemen. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional was conducted among Thalassemia patients attending Yemen Society for Thalassemia, from July to September 2020. A sample size of 344 Thalassemia patients between 5 and 18 years of age. Data was collected by using the Pediatric Quality of Life 4.0 as face to face interview with children and their parents. The scale consisted of four domains (Physical, emotional, social and school functioning) and other related demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients. coefficient tests as appropriate. Two-tailed, p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study results showed that the Thalassemia patients were males with a percentage of (54.9%)The total HRQoL mean score was found to be (50.6±16.5) with the highest mean scores in the social (69.3±20.2) and emotional (55.9±20.7) functioning domains. There was correlation between age, education, residency and total HRQoL scores, which was statistically significant (P-value<0.05). There was correlation iron over load complications, pre-transfusion Hb level, received iron chelation and total HRQoL scores (P-value<0.05). Conclusions: To improve HRQOL of thalassemia patients, suitable programs aimed at providing psychosocial. The findings also confirmed the importance of maintaining a pre transfusion Hb level of at least 9-10.5 g/dL.