Physical and Psychological Aspects of School-Age Children with Major Thalassemia

Objective: This study aims to assess the quality of life (QoL) in the physical and psychological domains among school-age children with major thalassemia compared to healthy peers. Additionally, it seeks to identify differences in QoL between these two groups. Methods and Materials: Data collection occurred between February 12, 2024, and April 15, 2024. A questionnaire and individual interviews were employed to gather data from participants at a hematology center and a hospital school unit. The same questionnaire was administered to both groups—thalassemia patients and healthy controls—under identical conditions to ensure consistency. Findings: The findings revealed that in the physical domain, children with thalassemia were significantly less likely to achieve superior QoL scores compared to controls, with 7 (14%) versus 39 (78%), respectively (p < .001). In the psychological domain, the frequency of good QoL levels was lower among thalassemia patients compared to controls, at 2 (4%) versus 10 (20%), respectively. Conversely, poor QoL levels were more prevalent in the thalassemia group compared to controls, at 10% versus 4%, respectively (p = .030). Conclusion: Significant disparities in QoL exist between school-age children with major thalassemia and their healthy peers, particularly in physical and psychological domains. Further research, continuous monitoring, and support from governmental, familial, and societal entities, including schools, are imperative to prevent further deterioration and enhance the well-being of affected children.