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Original Research | Hematology | Volume 15 Issue 8, August 2026 | Pages: 1957 - 1967 | Albania
Psychosocial and Functional Burden in Transfusion-Dependent Hemoglobinopathies: Clinical and Transfusion-Related Correlates in an Albanian Observational Cohort
Abstract: Background: Regular transfusion improves survival in transfusion-dependent hemoglobinopathies, but chronic disease and treatment may affect daily functioning and psychosocial well-being. Aim: To describe patient-reported psychosocial and functional burden and examine its clinical and transfusion-related correlates. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 115 patients aged over 15 years receiving regular transfusions and followed during 2025 at a specialized hemoglobinopathy center in Albania. A researcher-developed questionnaire assessed seven psychosocial and functional domains. Correlation and logistic regression analyses examined associations with clinical and transfusion-related characteristics. Results: Fatigue affected daily activities in 83.5% of participants, 93.0% reported an effect on educational performance, 97.4% did not participate in sports, and 93.9% reported having experienced hopelessness. Higher pretransfusion hemoglobin and longer transfusion intervals were associated with lower odds of several adverse outcomes, whereas older age and severe iron overload were associated with greater burden in selected domains. Conclusion: Patients with transfusion-dependent hemoglobinopathies experience substantial psychosocial and functional burden despite the clinical benefits of transfusion therapy. Patient-reported assessment and multidisciplinary psychological, educational, social, and vocational support should complement routine clinical monitoring.
Keywords: Hemoglobinopathies, Blood transfusion, Quality of life, Daily functioning, Psychosocial burden, Fatigue, Patient-reported outcomes
How to Cite?: Theodhor DISHO, Manika KREKA, "Psychosocial and Functional Burden in Transfusion-Dependent Hemoglobinopathies: Clinical and Transfusion-Related Correlates in an Albanian Observational Cohort", Volume 15 Issue 8, August 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1957-1967, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26827143650, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26827143650