Hubungan Dukungan Keluarga Terhadap Kualitas Hidup Anak Dengan Talasemia Di Rumah Sakit Umum Pusat Haji Adam Malik Medan

Abstract

Background Thalassemia is a chronic genetic disorder that requires long-term management including regular blood transfusions and continuous monitoring. This condition affects various aspects of a child’s life, including physical, emotional, social, and academic functioning. Family plays an essential role in helping children adapt to their chronic condition, and family support is believed to influence the quality of life of children with thalassemia. Objective To determine the relationship between family support and the quality of life of children with thalassemia. Methods This study employed a descriptive correlational design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 60 children with thalassemia were selected using a total sampling technique. Data were collected using the Family Support Scale (FSS) to assess family support and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) to assess quality of life. Data analysis was performed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the Chi-Square test. Results Most respondents received family support (83.3%) and had a good quality of life (65.0%). The Chi-Square test showed a p-value of 0.025 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant relationship between family support and the quality of life of children with thalassemia. Children who received adequate family support were more likely to have a good quality of life (72.0%) compared to those who did not receive family support (30.0%). Conclusion Family support has a significant relationship with the quality of life of children with thalassemia. The better the support provided by the family, the better the child’s quality of life. Interventions aimed at strengthening family capacity in providing support are highly recommended for healthcare services.