EXAMINING MEANING IN LIFE AMONG PATIENTS WITH THALASSEMIA: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Objectives: The study was conducted with the aim of examining meaning in life
among patients with thalassemia, the knowledge of which is essential in
developing more suitable clinical, counseling, and social support programs to
improve treatment outcomes of these patients.
Design of the Study: A comparative research design
Place and Duration of Study: Different Universities of Karachi from January
2022-January 2023
Sample and method: The study sample consisted of 45 thalassemia patients
(ages 11 to 50 years) who were selected randomly, who completed the Meaning
in life Questionnaire (Steger et al., 2006) comprising 10 items to determine the
presence and search for meaning.
Results and Conclusion: Results showed that minor thalassemia patients had
higher meaning in life than major thalassemia patients (P<.05). Results
regarding gender and age were inconclusive. It may be concluded that higher
meanings in life in patients with Thalassemia minor not only reduces distress but
also contribute in better adjustment with the disease.