The Impact of Type 1 Diabetes on the Quality of Life of Adolescents and on Their Relationship with the Family Environment

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood and adolescence. It imposes a strict treatment regimen on both adolescents and their families, which may negatively influence quality of life and family relationships. Aim: To assess the impact of T1DM on the quality of life (QoL) of adolescents and on their relationships with their family environment. Materials & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenient sample of 100 adolescents aged 11-18 years diagnosed with T1DM, and attending the Diabetes Center in Latakia, Syria. Data were collected using the Arabic version of the Diabetes QoL Scale, which consists of three dimensions: satisfaction with health, impact of the disease on family environment, and anxiety level. Results: the findings showed that most adolescents reported a moderate impact of the disease on their total QoL. Female reported significantly higher QoL scores than males (P=0.027). Recommendations: Adolescents with T1DM experience a moderate level of QoL across satisfaction, disease impact, and anxiety dimensions. These finding highlight the need for multidimensional interventions that combine medical follow-up with psychological and family-centered support to improve adolescents' QoL and facilitate T1DM.