A Cross-Sectional Study Assessing the Functional Status in Children With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Its Correlation With Their Quality of Life and Burden on Caregivers

TL;DR

This study shows that children with juvenile arthritis face functional challenges and lower quality of life, which also affects their caregivers.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into the correlation between children's functional status, quality of life, and caregiver burden in JIA.

Findings

Children with JIA showed moderate disability, particularly in walking and arising.

Most children reported some problems in all quality of life domains.

Caregivers experienced moderate burden, especially in financial and family routine aspects.

Abstract

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a common rheumatic disease in children, significantly impacting their functional status and quality of life (QoL), as well as imposing a burden on caregivers. This study aims to assess the functional status of children with JIA, their QoL, and the associated caregiver burden while exploring the correlations between these factors.

Methodology

A prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted over 18 months. A total of 33 children diagnosed with JIA were evaluated using the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), and Euro Quality of Life-5 Dimension-Youth (EQ-5D-Y). Caregiver burden was assessed using the Family Burden Interview Schedule (FBIS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and Spearman’s rank correlation.

Results

A total of 33 consecutive children with JIA were prospectively enrolled. The mean age was 10.1 ± 3.7 years, with a male predominance (63.6%, n = 21). Enthesitis-related arthritis was the most common subtype (42%, n = 14). The CHAQ scores indicated moderate disability, with profound impacts on walking and arising. Most children reported “some problems” in all EQ-5D-Y domains, with a mean health status visual analog scale score of 60.97 ± 23.43. The mean FBIS score was 9.64 ± 5.78, indicating a moderate caregiver burden. The majority of caregivers reported moderate financial, family routine, and family leisure disruptions. Significant correlations were found between CHAQ and EQ-5D-Y scores in several domains (p ≤ 0.040), as well as between specific CHAQ domains and FBIS scores (p ≤ 0.037).

Conclusions

Children with JIA experience significant functional limitations and reduced QoL, which also impacts their caregivers. Early rehabilitation and comprehensive care strategies are crucial for improving functional outcomes and QoL, as well as alleviating caregiver burden.

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