Cross-sectional analysis of health quality, treatment satisfaction and adherence in children with food allergy

Abstract

Objective: Food allergies (FA) significantly affect the quality of life (QoL) in children and their families. Management involves strict allergen avoidance, which can result in high emotional distress and an increased disease burden. Objective: To evaluate treatment adherence, satisfaction, and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HRQL) in children aged 0-12 years Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 children diagnosed with FA by a physician who required allergen avoidance. Parents completed the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire Parent Form (FAQLQ-PF), Food Allergy Parent Questionnaire (FAPQ), Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQM-9), and Modified Morisky Scale (MMS). Demographic and clinical data were obtained. Results: The median total score for FAQLQ-PF was 39 (IQR 26-54), indicating moderate impairment in QoL. Emotional impact and social/ dietary limitations were notably higher in children older than five years and those with multiple FA. The median FAPQ score was 38 (IQR 29-49), reflecting moderate parental stress and anxiety. Treatment satisfaction (TSQM-9) had a median score of 57 (IQR 41-71), with higher scores for parents of children with multisystem involvement. Treatment adherence (MMS) had a median score of 83 (IQR 67-100), indicating good overall adherence. Significant correlations were observed between higher parental anxiety and lower QoL. Conclusion: Children with FA and their parents experience significant HRQL impairment, stress, and varying levels of satisfaction with treatment. These results underscore the necessity for comprehensive management strategies that encompass psychosocial support and personalized interventions to enhance outcomes for families dealing with FA.