A survey of education and employment status of patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia from a low-middle-income country

Abstract

Background

The literacy rate in India is nearly 77 % with a school dropout rate of 16.7 % at the secondary level. Patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) face great difficulties in continuing education due to repeated hospital visits, the presence of co-morbidities, and psychosocial issues. The survey was undertaken to assess the educational and employment status of adult patients with TDT.

Material and methods

A survey was conducted amongst patients with TDT >18 years of age registered at the Thalassemia Day Care Centre (TDCC) in our hospital after obtaining informed consent. Demographic details along with education and employment achievements of patients were recorded. The socioeconomic status (SES) of the family was assessed using a modified Kuppuswamy scale for the year 2022. The education and employment status were correlated with age, sex, residence, education level of parents, and SES.

Results

A total of 117 patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 24.7 ± 6.13 years and M: F ratio of 2.1:1. 19.7 % of participants resided in rural areas. 38.6 % of participants had completed graduation and 19.7 % completed postgraduate/professional degrees in various fields. Nearly half (52.4 %) of patients were employed and financially independent. The education and employment status positively correlated with age, female sex, education of parents, and residence in urban areas.

Conclusion

Patients with TDT can achieve their personal and professional goals if given appropriate opportunities.