Explaining Consequences of Parents Having Child with Thalassemia: Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Thalassemia can affect different aspects of life the same as any other chronic disease. Despite therapeutic measures of thalassemia, the patient and families encounter several physical and psychological problems. Having a child with thalassemia can disrupts the family mental balance. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to explain the consequences of parents who have children with thalassemia. Methods: Inductive qualitative approach was applied in 2017 - 2018 in Hajar Hospital. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for data collection. Qualitative conventional content analysis was employed for data analysis. 10 five mothers, one grandmother, and two fathers and nurses participated in this study. Results: The three specified categories were as follows: (1) Non-acceptance of disease: disbelief, not following up treatment, and interest for abortion, (2) parent psychological reactions: unhappiness, anxiety, and mental confusion, (3) Isolation: dissociation and stigma. Conclusions: Parents who had children with thalassemia experienced several psychological problems. The consultative and supportive services of the health system were necessary for these parents. Also, it was urgent that the health authorities establish consulting clinics for chronic diseases to provide them the required consulting services.