Quality of life in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer during the coronavirus pandemic

Abstract

The diagnosis of cancer in childhood implies a transformation in lifestyle, which has a significant impact on multiple dimensions of the child's development and well-being. This study aimed to describe health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children diagnosed with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was developed, in which two instruments were applied, the first one allowed to characterize the sociodemographic aspects; the second one consisted of the Kidscreen-27® instrument, validated for Colombia, which evaluates health-related quality of life in the child population. Results: A total of 20 children participated, of whom 11 (55%) were female. Ninety-five percent belonged to socioeconomic strata 1 and 2; 35% resided in rural areas, and 50% were under active treatment. When evaluating the quality of life, it was evident that all the dimensions were positively evaluated. However, in the dimension related to the school environment and peer relationships, 47.4% of the participants rated themselves as not very or moderately happy in their educational context or their interaction with their friends. Conclusions: In the face of future challenges arising from health emergencies, it is essential to adapt and strengthen support systems to comprehensively address medical and psychosocial needs, ensuring a holistic, sensitive, and equitable approach to pediatric cancer care in hospital and educational settings.