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Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

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Open Access 01-12-2006 | Research

The impact of iron overload and its treatment on quality of life: results from a literature review

Authors: Linda Abetz, Jean-Francois Baladi, Paula Jones, Diana Rofail

Published in: Health and Quality of Life Outcomes | Issue 1/2006

Abstract

Background

To assess the literature for the impact of iron overload and infusion Iron Chelation Therapy (ICT) on patients' quality of life (QoL), and the availability of QoL instruments for patients undergoing infusion ICT. Also, to obtain patients' experiences of having iron overload and receiving infusion ICT, and experts' clinical opinions about the impact of treatment on patients' lives.

Methods

A search of studies published between 1966 and 2004 was conducted using Medline and the Health Economic Evaluation Database (HEED). Qualitative results from patient and expert interviews were analysed. Hand searching of relevant conference abstracts completed the search.

Results

Few studies measuring the impact of ICT with deferoxamine (DFO) on patients QoL were located (n = 15). QoL domains affected included: depression; fatigue; dyspnoea; physical functioning; psychological distress; decrease in QoL during hospitalization. One theme in all articles was that oral ICT should improve QoL. No iron overload or ICT-specific QoL instruments were located in the articles. Interviews revealed that the impact of ICT on patients with thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and myelodysplastic syndromes is high.

Conclusion

A limited number of studies assessed the impact of ICT or iron overload on QoL. All literature suggested a need for easily administered, efficacious and well tolerated oral iron overload treatments, given the impact of current ICT on adherence. Poor adherence to ICT was documented to negatively impact survival. Further research is warranted to continue the qualitative and quantitative study of QoL using validated instruments in patients receiving ICT to further understanding the issues and improve patients QoL.

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Title: The impact of iron overload and its treatment on quality of life: results from a literature review
Authors: Linda Abetz
Jean-Francois Baladi
Paula Jones
Diana Rofail
Publication date: 01-12-2006
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Health and Quality of Life Outcomes / Issue 1/2006
Electronic ISSN: 1477-7525
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7525-4-73

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The impact of iron overload and its treatment on quality of life: results from a literature review

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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