Quality of Life and Related Factors in β-Thalassemia Patients

Abstract

The β-thalassemias are a group of genetic disorders defined by decreased levels of functional hemoglobin (Hb). In light of pivotal improvements in patient survival, the load of consistent treatment harms patients’ quality of life (QOL). This study aimed to determine the QOL in patients with β-thalassemia (β-thal) in Iran and identify associated factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1240 patients with β-thal. Data for this study were obtained from the General, the TranQol (Transfusion-dependent QoL) Standard, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) questionnaires. The univariate and multivariable linear regression was used in STATA version 14 to identify factors related to QOL. Overall, the QOL score was 103 ± 21.96, and adults had a higher score than children under 15 years old. Emotional health had the highest score (39.96 ± 11.54), and sexual activity in adults (1.87 ± 2.08) and activities related to education in children (10.43 ± 7.46) had the lowest. The multivariable linear regression analysis showed that the age, gender, age of blood transfusion initiation, Hb level, number of underlying diseases, and social support level by family and community significantly impact QOL. In exchange for an increase in comorbidities, patients’ QOL decreased by 86.0% [odds ratio (OR) = 0.14, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.04–0.45]. Many factors affecting the QOL can be controlled, so social support, increased Hb levels, regular and timely blood transfusions, and treatment can improve the thalassemia patients’ QOL.

Keywords:

• β-Thalassemia (β-thal)
• Iran
• quality of life (QOL)
• related factors

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the Special Disease Association of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education and universities and clinical centers that participated in this project and provided the necessary services.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported and funded by the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.