Quality of life and burnout: children and adolescents in cancer treatment.

Abstract

Background: Pediatric cancer is a complex disease that requires interdisciplinary interventions. This study aims to describe the quality of life and exhaustion levels in children diagnosed with cancer, using validated instruments that reflect the peculiarities of this disease.

Method: An observational analytical study was conducted on children and adolescents aged 2 to 18 years with cancer. The PedsQL Cancer Module and FACIT-F instruments were used to assess quality of life and fatigue, respectively, with statistical analysis performed to identify correlations and develop an explanatory model.

Results: Notable physical and psychological symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, hyporexia, irritability, and sadness were identified. The PedsQL and FACIT-F indicated a diminished quality of life. There was high concordance between the perceptions of children and their parents, except in the anxiety related to procedures, where children reported higher levels. These symptoms reflect the impact of cancer treatment on children's well-being. The concordance in evaluations suggests that parents have a good understanding of these experiences, highlighting the relevance of psychosocial interventions to improve quality of life through an adequate support network.

Conclusions: It is crucial that pediatric cancer treatment addresses not only medical aspects but also the comprehensive support for the emotional and psychosocial well-being of the patients and their families.