Quality of Life in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Indonesia
Author Information
Author(s): Sitaresmi Mei N, Mostert Saskia, Gundy Chad M, Sutaryo, Veerman Anjo JP
Primary Institution: Gadjah Mada University
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients in Indonesia and the influence of demographic and medical characteristics on HRQOL.
Conclusion
Younger children had more problems in procedural anxiety, treatment anxiety, and communication subscales, indicating a need for special care during intervention procedures.
Supporting Evidence
- HRQOL of Indonesian patients was comparable with those in developed countries.
- Children aged 2–5 years had significantly more problems in anxiety and communication compared to older groups.
- Patients in the non-intensive phase reported significantly better HRQOL than those in the intensive phase.
Takeaway
This study found that younger kids with leukemia feel more anxious during treatments, so they need extra help to feel better.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) 4.0 Generic Core Scale and the PedsQL™ 3.0 Cancer Module.
Potential Biases
Guardians tended to report worse HRQOL than patients, which may reflect parental distress.
Limitations
The study was limited to a single hospital in Indonesia and may not be generalizable to all childhood ALL patients in the country.
Participant Demographics
The average age of participants was 6.6 years, with a majority from low socioeconomic status families.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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