Quality of Life Among Children With Congenital Heart Defect Based on Parents' proxy-report

The aim of this study was to evaluate quality of life among children with congenital heart defect (CHD) and to determine the associated factors based on parents' proxy-reports.
This cross-sectional study was conducted on 263 children with CHD using inventory of PedsQoL 3.0. The PedsQoL 3.0 scores reported by parents of children. The association between quality of life and patients characteristics were assessed using multivariate linear regression method.
The mean score of total quality of life was 51.6 (SD=9.68). Re-hospitalization cost was high for the majority of families (46.8%). Heart problem scale of quality of life was significantly associated with mothers’ education and age. On treatment scale, only age had significant correlation. Physical appearances, was associated with number of household and type of diseases. Anxiety was significantly associated with age and re-hospitalization status. Cognition correlated with household numbers and age. Total quality of life was significantly associated with income, age and number of household.
The study found some important predictors of quality of life in children with CHD. The results can be used for further educational and supportive programs for these patients.