Sleep Problems and Quality of Life in Children with Leukemia
Author Information
Author(s): van Litsenburg Raphaële RL, Huisman Jaap, Hoogerbrugge Peter M, Egeler R Maarten, Kaspers Gertjan JL, Gemke Reinoud JBJ
Primary Institution: VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hypothesis
Impaired sleep is associated with impaired quality of life in children during maintenance treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Conclusion
The study suggests that impaired sleep may contribute to lower quality of life in children undergoing cancer treatment.
Supporting Evidence
- Children with ALL had more sleep problems compared to healthy children.
- Quality of life was significantly lower in ALL children compared to Dutch population norms.
- Sleep anxiety and night wakening were negatively correlated with overall quality of life.
Takeaway
Kids with leukemia often have trouble sleeping, which can make them feel worse overall. Helping them sleep better might help them feel better.
Methodology
Children aged 2-18 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia were assessed using sleep and quality of life questionnaires during maintenance therapy.
Potential Biases
Parental reports may not accurately reflect children's sleep quality.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and relied on parental reports for sleep assessment.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 6.7 years, 44% boys.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.014
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website