Predictors of family quality of life among Omani families of children with sickle cell disease: maternal stress and family structure in a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE: Children with chronic health conditions such as sickle cell disease (SCD) often have a reduced quality of life, with consequences for their families. This study examined predictors of family quality of life (FQOL) among Omani families of children with SCD. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a convenience sample of 103 mothers completed validated measures of maternal perceived stress and FQOL. Multiple regression analyses examined the effects of individual- and family-level factors on FQOL, with family income and family structure entered as categorical variables. RESULTS: Maternal perceived stress (β=-.46, p<.001) and family structure (β=-.212, p=.023) significantly predicted FQOL. FQOL was higher in nuclear families (mean=3.63, standard deviation=0.39) than in other family types (extended, single-parent, and polygamous) (mean=3.34, standard deviation=0.47; t(101)=-3.50, p=.001). The overall regression model explained 30.9% of the variance in family quality of life (R²=.309). Conclusion: Maternal perceived stress and family composition both were significantly associated with FQOL. These findings support the need for culturally responsive, family-centered interventions and can inform clinical and policy strategies to improve family functioning and overall well-being among families of children with SCD.