Shaligram, DeepikaGirimaji, Satish CChaturvedi, Santosh K2007-03-032009-05-302007-03-032009-05-302007-03-03Shaligram D, Girimaji SC, Chaturvedi SK. Quality of life issues in caregivers of youngsters with thalassemia. Indian Journal of Pediatrics. 2007 Mar; 74(3): 275-8http://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/83464OBJECTIVE: To assess the contribution of psychiatric problems, concerns regarding the illness to Quality of Life (QOL) in caregivers. METHODS: Forty four caregivers were screened for psychiatric problems using the General Health Questionnaire 12 item version (GHQ-12) and their concerns and QOL were assessed using the Concerns Checklist and the EQ5D respectively. Clinical psychiatric interview was conducted for those qualifying for GHQ caseness and a psychiatric diagnosis was ascribed. These were correlated with the Childhood Psychopathology Measurement Schedule/ GHQ- 12 scores (as appropriate) and the EQ5D score of the youngster. RESULTS: Fifty seven percent of the caregivers had psychiatric problems, with depressive disorders in 19/44 (45%) QOL was affected in 50% (Pain/ discomfort (n =19, 45%), Mobility (n = 7, 17%), Depression and Usual activities dimensions (n= 6, 14% each). The greatest concerns were regarding the future (91%), illness (80%) and finances (73%). CONCLUSION: Caregiver support through psychological interventions or medication would alleviate psychiatric problems and concerns and contribute towards a better QOL.engAdolescentCaregiversChildFemaleHumansMaleMental Disorders --epidemiologyQuality of LifeQuestionnairesThalassemia --nursingJournal Article