# Exploring the quality of life of caregivers of children with sickle cell disease in a secondary health facility in Ghana

## TL;DR

This study explores the challenges faced by caregivers of children with sickle cell disease in Ghana, highlighting the need for comprehensive support.

## Contribution

The study identifies the multifaceted caregiving burden and emphasizes the importance of psychological support for caregivers.

## Key findings

- Caregivers face significant financial and psychological burdens.
- Social and physical burdens also impact their quality of life.
- Psychological interventions are crucial for supporting caregivers.

## Abstract

To explore the caregiving burden of caregivers of children with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to provide a foundation for policy interventions

A qualitative study based on convenience sampling

The Sickle Cell Clinic of the Paediatric Department of a secondary health facility

Primary caregivers of children with SCD who had been attending the clinic for at least one year were included. Caregivers whose children had another chronic illness were excluded to avoid confounding. Eleven care-givers participated in the study.

No intervention

Caregiving burden among participants caring for children with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

The four main themes that emerged from the study were the financial, psychological, social, and physical burdens of caregiving. The financial and psychological burdens were noted to have the most substantial impact on their quality of life.

Addressing the needs of caregivers of children with SCD goes beyond financial support. Providing psychological interventions is crucial to alleviating the emotional burden of the disease on caregivers. The study revealed the multifaceted challenges faced by caregivers; hence, the need for a holistic approach to support families affected by SCD in Ghana.

None declared