Abstract
We examined the mental health and quality of life (QoL) outcomes and their correlates of school-aged survivors of neonatal jaundice (NNJ), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and a comparison group. The Child Behavior Checklist and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory were administered to assess the mental health and QoL of 375 children (134 with NNJ, 107 with HIE, and 134 comparison group) aged 6 to 12 years [Median age 9 (interquartile range 7 to 11)]. The results showed that survivors of NNJ and HIE have mental health problems and QoL similar to the comparison group. Maternal mental health was the predominant covariate of mental health and QoL in survivors of NNJ and HIE. This result could indicate that mothers with mental health problems are more likely to have children with mental health issues, but also that caring for children with these adversities may affect mental health well-being of the caregivers. There is a need for early mental health screening and psychosocial intervention for caregivers and their children to enhance both their mental health and QoL.
Highlights
Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) are common problems globally, but are most prevalent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as those in sub- Saharan Africa (SSA) [1, 2]
The findings indicate that the survivors of NNJ and HIE have comparable emotional and behavioural problems (EBPs) and quality of life (QoL) functioning as the community comparison group
We found no significant differences in the QoL of survivors of NNJ and HIE when compared to healthy children
Summary
Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) are common problems globally, but are most prevalent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as those in sub- Saharan Africa (SSA) [1, 2]. HIE is characterized by a reduced oxygen or blood flow in the brain before, during, or immediately after birth [4]. Both NNJ and HIE are major causes. In high-income countries (HICs), most children survive NNJ and HIE without significant morbidity due to availability of preventive strategies, early diagnosis, and advanced care and treatment. Most children may experience a late diagnosis of NNJ or HIE depending on how soon the caregivers detect illness in their children and how fast they access hospital services. Accessibility to the hospital is further derailed by economic and infrastructural challenges [10,11,12]
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