The effects of gender on health-related quality of life in pediatric live-donor kidney transplantation: a single-center experience in a developing country.

摘要

To evaluate the effects of gender on HRQOL and overall health status in our pediatric kidney transplants. We performed a cross-sectional study in 77 children who received living renal allo-transplants in our center between 1981 and 2003. The patients were given a questionnaire at a post-transplant visit. After completing, the patients returned it in a closed envelope. The questionnaire included demographic questions plus 57 multiple-choice questions designed to analyze various aspects of post-transplant life. Overall, the patients show satisfactory HRQOL. Most of the patients lived with their parents (79.2%). The current health status did not cause difficulties at work in 70.1% and did not interfere with the social life in 62.3% of patients. Physical and sexual growth was delayed in 48% and 85.7% of patients, respectively. A total of 67.5% of patients had normal health life or minor symptoms with normal activity. There was no significant effect of gender on HRQOL except for onset of puberty, sexual function, practicing sports, and obesity. Overall, the patients show satisfactory HRQOL. There was mild significant effect of gender on HRQOL. These findings may help health care professionals to develop gender-specific interventions to optimize HRQOL of kidney transplants.