Quality of Life Among Adolescents and Adult Patients with Beta-Thalassemia Major in Karbala, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Beta-thalassemia major (β-TM) is a chronic hereditary blood disorder requiring lifelong blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy. It significantly affects the quality of life (QoL), especially in resource-limited settings.Objective: This study aims to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescent and adult patients with β-TM in Karbala, Iraq, and identify associated demographic and clinical determinants. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Hereditary Blood Diseases Center in Karbala between 2024–2025. A total of 170 patients aged ≥12 years were enrolled. Data were collected using the Arabic version of the SF-36 questionnaire, with additional WHOQOL-BREF items. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23. Results: The mean total QoL score was 49.76±10.61. Social functioning had the highest score, while general health was the lowest. Factors positively influencing QoL included higher income, higher education, being employed, later onset of disease, and regular transfusion frequency. Unexpectedly, patients not using chelation therapy reported better QoL scores in several domains. Conclusion: QoL in β-TM patients is significantly influenced by socioeconomic and clinical factors. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care—especially addressing mental health and social integration—is essential to improve overall well-being.