Assessment of Quality of Life and Stress Levels Among Arab Mothers of Children With Congenital Heart Disease in the United Arab Emirates

TL;DR

This study examines the stress and quality of life of Arab mothers in the UAE whose children have congenital heart disease.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into stress and QOL among Arab mothers of children with CHD in the UAE.

Findings

Most mothers reported moderate stress levels, with only a small percentage experiencing high stress.

Mothers' physical health, psychological well-being, and social relationships were significantly affected.

No significant QOL differences were found between mothers of children with cyanotic and non-cyanotic CHD.

Abstract

Objectives: The quality of life (QOL) of mothers of children with chronic illnesses has become increasingly important, particularly with improved survival rates and reduced mortality. This study evaluated the stress levels and health-related QOL in families of children with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a primary hospital in the United Arab Emirates specializing in children's heart diseases. A total of 205 Arabic mothers of children with heart disease were recruited. Data on QOL and disease-specific factors were collected through standardized assessments and validated measures in Arabic.

Results: According to the PSS, 178 (86%) of participants reported moderate stress, while 14 (6.8%) reported high stress. Substantial effects were observed in mothers' physical health, psychological well-being, environmental factors, and social relationships, with the strongest associations between the social and environmental domains. No significant differences in QOL were found between mothers of children with cyanotic and non-cyanotic CHD.

Conclusion: The study concluded that mothers of children with CHD generally experience moderate stress. No significant differences in stress levels were observed between mothers of children with cyanotic and non-cyanotic CHD. These results highlight the need to address stress and improve QOL for mothers of children with CHD.