Self and Proxy Reported Quality of Life of Children with Asthma

Background: Asthma is a global public health program. It affects patients of different age and is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among children.

Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) of children with asthma by both self- and proxy-reports.

Methods: A total of 527 Lithuanian children with asthma and their parents were enrolled into a cross-sectional study. Participants of the study were asked to fill in anonymous questionnaires during scheduled outpatient visits to pediatric pulmonologist. QoL of children with asthma was assessed using PedsQL Asthma Module consisting of 2 scales and 22 questions. Age-appropriate versions of the questionnaire were completed by children and their parents. Scores for each scale and overall score were calculated and ranged from 0 to 100 where higher score referred to better QoL.

Results: The age of children enrolled into this study varied from 2 to 17 years and the mean age was 8.4 (±4.3) years. A total of 63.2% of respondents were boys. Children evaluated their asthma related QoL better compared to parents’ evaluation (median score 77.3 (68.2; 86.4) and 75.0 (63.6; 86.4) respectively, p=0.045). The differences between parent and children assessment were the highest at the oldest age group. The most important factors, associated with the QoL of children with asthma by both self- and proxy-reports were asthma severity and control as well as shortness of breath. Parent reported QoL was also related with child’s general health and presence of concomitant allergies.

Conclusions: Children with asthma assess their QoL better compared to their parents. The differences in the assessment were the highest at the oldest age group of children and should be taken into consideration during the preparation of individual asthma control plan.