Determination of Quality of Life for Thalassemic Adolescent

Abstract

Background: Thalassemia major is a prevalent hereditary disease in Mediterranean region, so that the assessment of quality of life, especially in those with chronic illnesses such as thalassemia is particularly important.

Objectives: To assess thalassemic adolescents' quality of life through it domain of school functioning.

Methodology: A descriptive quantitative study was carried out in order to a achieve the stated objectives. The study begin of November 1st, 2011 to July 15th, 2012, A non-probability purposive (presentative) sample of Seventy (70) patients who seeking a medical care at thalassemia center in Al-Zahra teaching Hospital which included. information was collected through the use of questionnaire designed and consists of three parts, part included sociodemographic characteristics and contain (4) paragraphs and part included clinical characteristics and complications, consisting of (5) vertebrae.

Conclusion The study concluded that common thalassemia disease occurrence in people living in urban areas those of the inhabitants of rural areas. And thalassemia disease often occurs in men more than women. Study also confirmed that thalassemia affects heavily on the educational level of the individuals. The study also showed decline in the overall evaluation of the quality of life of patients.

Recommendations The study recommends to provide psychologist in the hematological units and out patient clinics is a must be present to help in providing a link between patients, school officials, the families, and the physicians and health oriented mass media should be employed for providing the population with a comprehensive information about the thalassemia.