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Abstract

Introduction, In Uganda, leukaemia and lymphoma contribute to 33% and 13% of all childhood cancers, respectively, with improving survival rates. However, data on quality of life (QoL) among adolescents who have achieved remission remain limited. The objective of this study was to determine the quality of life (QoL) among adolescents who were in remission from liquid cancers at Mulago National Referral Hospital (MNRH). Methods A cross-sectional study design was used to determine the prevalence of QoL measured as a composite indicator constituted of four domains (Physical, Emotional, Social, and Environmental) using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Each domain was scored based on a Likert scale ranging from 0(good) to 5(bad), then reverse scored (100 = 0, 0 = 5) and summed for all questions across all 5 domains. An average score was then calculated. QoL was categorised as good (> 70) or poor (<70). Data on explanatory variables (demographics, clinical, social, and lifestyle) were collected. The prevalence of QoL was reported as a percentage, and the modified Poisson regression model was used to determine the factors associated with QoL.Results, The prevalence of Good QoL was 62.6% (95% CI: 53.3 – 71.9). Factors associated with good QoL included being in a relationship (aPR 1.43, 95 % 0.98-2.09, p-value 0.049) and engagement in extracurricular activities (aPR 2.04, 95% CI 1.00-4.14, p-value 0.048). The presence of comorbidities (aPR 0.21, 95% CI 0.21-1.14, p-value 0.043) and persistence of treatment side effects (aPR 0.26, 95% CI 0.13-0.52, p-value 0.000) were associated with poor QoL. The median scores (IQR) per domain were: 78.1 (60.7-93.8), 80 (65-90), 80 (70-100), and 75 (60-85) for Physical, Emotional, Social, and School/work domains, respectively. Conclusion. Prevalence of good QoL was modest, calling for intervention targeting domains with poor functioning, like school and physical domains should be prioritized. Inclusion of survivorship programs into management of adolescents with liquid cancers in remission should be considered.