Patient’s perception of the meaning of life in cystic fibrosis – its evaluation with respect to the stage of the disease and treatment

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is related to physical and mental barriers. The objective of this work was to evaluate and compare patients' perception of sense of life in cystic fibrosis in different stages of their disease and therapeutic methods. The study group included 45 patients divided into 3 subgroups: after lung transplantation, waiting for lung transplantation and with cystic fibrosis in stable condition. The evaluation and comparison of patient's perception of sense of life and purpose of life was performed with the Purpose in Life Test. All patients with CF felt their lives were meaningful and purposeful. However, their pursuits for designated aims depended on the progression of their disease. CF with its poor prognosis has a significant impact on patient's hierarchy of respected values and life priorities. High level of acceptance for suicidal behaviours observed in all diagnostic subgroups of patients with CF indicates a need for organized intensified psychological care.