Relationship Between Anthropometric Indices, Depression and Quality Of Life In Patients Of Thalassemia Major After Covid-19

Objective: Thalassemia, a blood disorder, characterized by aberrant red blood cell formation, leading to anaemia, a primary symptom. Anthropometry examines human body measurements including age-relative height and weight. Individuals with beta-thalassemia major are short stature and experience depressive moods due to social limitations, affecting their standard of living. This study aims to investigate the correlation between anthropometric indices, depression and the quality of life of individuals with thalassemia major post Covid-19. Study design: It was a Analytical Cross Sectional study. Place and duration of study: The study was conducted within the community of Rawalpindi and Islamabad from May 02nd, 2022 to July 02nd. Material and Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study conducted within the community of Rawalpindi and Islamabad from May 02nd, 2022 to July 02nd, 2022. We included both male and female thalassemia patients aged 05-18 years equally. Data collection utilized Beck-Inventory Depression, Paeds-Ql questionnaires, Stadiometer, and Body Mass Index-calculator. Results: Our study included 40 participants and we confirmed a normal distribution via Shapiro-Wilk test. Employing Pearson's correlation, we explored the relationships between Paeds QOL and BMI, as well as Paeds Quality of Life and Beck Depression Inventory. The results showed a very weak, statistically insignificant correlation (p>0.05). Participants were categorized into two height groups: normal and short stature. Analysis revealed a weak correlation (p = 0.2) between normal and short stature groups with Paeds QOL and BMI. However, no statistically significant correlation existed between both groups and Paeds QOL and BDI. Conclusion: Our study concluded that Thalassemia major has no relationship between mental health and quality of life. However, considering half the population had short-stature in early teens, timely detection and intervention could prevent growth delay and comorbidities.