OBJECTIVES : This study was aimed to assess Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) among thalassemia patient of Quetta, Pakistan.

METHODS : A cross sectional study was conducted by Using PedsQL 4.0 generic core scale for assessment of QoL, it has four dimensions: physical, emotional, social and role (school) functioning. All registered thalassemia patients attending three thalassemic centers Bolan Medical Complex Hospital, Sandeman Provincial Hospital, Fatimid Foundation Quetta, Pakistan were selected for the study. Descriptive statistics were used to describe demographic and disease characteristics of the patients. All data was analyzed by using SPSS version 20.0.

RESULTS : Two hundred and sixty-seven thalassemia patients were enrolled in the study. Majority of the participants (n=145, 54.1%) were male and categorized with the age group of 8-12 years (n=140, 52.2%). HRQoL was measured as poor in the current study (32.65 ± 15.211). The study also revealed value in physical (15.04 ± 6.941) and emotional (10.79 ± 4.684). Social (4.34 ± 5.078) and school functioning (9.11 ± 3.143) also found to have negative impact on HRQoL. Age, gender, education status was affecting the HRQoL of thalassemia patients.

CONCLUSIONS : Thalassemia has a negative impact on perceived physical, emotional, social and school functioning in patient’s well-being and overall HRQoL. Improving the disease related knowledge and parental awareness regarding various aspects of thalassemia can prevent thalassemia and results in better control and management.