Level of Depression and Anxiety among School Age Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia under Chemotherapy Treatment at Pediatric Teaching Hospitals in Baghdad City

Abstract

Objective(s): To assess the level of depression and anxiety among school age children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia under chemotherapy treatment and to find out the relationship between the level of depression and anxiety among the affected children and their demographic characteristics. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on school age children both gender having acute lymphoblastic leukemia under chemotherapy treated and their age between 6 years to 12 years. The study started from the period of September, 19th 2020 to March,1st 2021. Non-probability (Purposive) sample of (114) children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia under chemotherapy was selected in attending hospital wards, outpatient and counseling clinics. The questionnaire is designed and composed of two parts: the first part includes two sections that deal with the children’s demographic data, and information about disease to children, the second part includes hospital anxiety and depression scale. The reliability of the questionnaire is determined through a pilot study and the validity through a panel of (12) experts. The data are collected by the use of the questionnaire. The data are described statistically and analyzed through the use of descriptive and inferential statistical analysis procedures.Results: The results of the present study indicated that level of depression and anxiety of the most children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia had moderate level, no Significance is found between the level of depression and anxiety and their demographic characteristics of childrenRecommendations: Establishment of specialized centers to treat depression and anxiety for children who are treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia