Determination of factors affecting the quality of life in children with asthma

Abstract

Objectives: This study has been conducted in order to determine the factors affecting the quality of life inchildren with asthma.Methods: The study sample consisted of 103 children (aged 7-16). Data has been collected using sociodemographic questionnaire and Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ) through face to faceinterviews.Results: Seventy-eight point six percent of the children’s daily activities were affected due to asthma.Evaluating the sub-groups mean scores of the life quality of the children; the highest mean score was in thesymptoms group. The activity limitation sub-group mean score was significantly decreased with the increaseof the number of people living in the house and other siblings having asthma too. The symptom sub-groupsmean scores of the children that are exposed to smoke and psychological factors and which state that theirdaily activities are being affected was lower. The emotional function sub-groups mean score of the childrenthat are exposed to psychological factors was significantly decreased. The scale total mean score of the childrenwith sensitivity to cockroach and psychological factor stimulant was lower (p < 0.05).Conclusions: It's been suggested that the stimulants which trigger the symptoms, asthma disease, accurateand effective medication treatment and self-care should be taught to the child and the family; home carecontinuity should be ensured and arranging the environment to reduce the child's connection with the allergensthat could trigger the asthma attack is necessary.