Aplastic Anaemia Disease Burden From the Patient Perspective and Quality of Life in Zimbabwe by A. Maramba and J. Mupini.

Abstract

Purpose: Aplastic Anaemia (AA) is a critical haematological disorder characterized by pancytopenia and marrow hypoplasia. It is generally regarded as a rare disease albeit with multiple symptoms. The aim of the study was to get the patients' perspective to evaluate the disease burden and their knowledge, attitude, practices, and adherence to treatment.

Patients and methods: This qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted at the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe, to investigate patients' perspectives on their knowledge, attitudes, practices and disease burden regarding AA.

Results: Eleven participants diagnosed with AA via bone marrow biopsy were recruited between November 2022 and May 2023. A structured, ethically approved questionnaire was used to gather data on demographics, clinical status, treatment experiences, and overall disease knowledge. Results showed that respondents generally possessed a robust understanding of their condition; however, financial constraints significantly hindered access to appropriate treatment options, including potential curative therapies such as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Zimbabwean healthcare faces profound challenges, with less than 5% of patients receiving appropriate therapy within the first year of diagnosis.

Conclusion: This study underscores the urgent need for enhanced patient support systems and policies to improve healthcare access for individuals with AA in Zimbabwe. Recommendations include the development of targeted awareness initiatives and supportive resources to elevate the quality of life for patients with aplastic anaemia.