Pregnant women affected by thalassemia major: a controlled study of traits and personality
2010

Psychological Traits in Pregnant Women with Thalassemia Major

Sample size: 62 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Messina Giuseppina, Colombo Elisa, Cassinerio Elena, Cesaretti Claudia, Marcon Alessia, Zanaboni Laura, Baldini Marina, Cappellini Maria Domenica

Primary Institution: Policlinico Foundation IRCCS, University of Milan, Milan, Italy

Hypothesis

What are the psychological attitudes and expectations of thalassemic pregnant women compared to healthy pregnant women?

Conclusion

Thalassemic pregnant women exhibit higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to healthy pregnant women, indicating a need for psychological support.

Supporting Evidence

  • Narcissism and sexual traumas are significantly higher in thalassemic women compared to the control group.
  • 45% of thalassemic women showed anxiety compared to 3% in the control group.
  • 55% of thalassemic women showed depression compared to 12% in the control group.
  • 87% of thalassemic women exhibited anxiety traits compared to 42% in the control group.

Takeaway

Women with thalassemia who are pregnant often feel more anxious and depressed than other pregnant women, so they might need extra help to feel better.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study involving 20 thalassemic patients and 42 healthy pregnant volunteers, using psychological tests.

Potential Biases

Potential selection bias due to the small sample size and specific population.

Limitations

The study only included thalassemic women, limiting the generalizability of the results.

Participant Demographics

20 thalassemic pregnant women (average age: 32 years) and 42 healthy pregnant volunteers (average age: 30 years).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

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