Health-Related Quality of Life at Diagnosis for Pediatric Thyroid Cancer Patients
Authors' conclusion
The findings suggest general resilience in TC patients compared to youth with other cancers, yet worse HRQoL than peers. Early universal screening is warranted due to a short TC treatment regimen. If administrative barriers preclude comprehensive screening, the single-item Distress Thermometer may identify patients for further comprehensive screening.
Study context
- Population
- Pediatric thyroid cancer (TC) patients (ages 8.5–23.4 years) and caregivers from a pediatric thyroid center, around time of surgery
- Exposure
- Pediatric TC patients vs other pediatric cancer and healthy youth reported norms
- Outcome
- HRQoL (PedsQL) and Distress Thermometer
- Follow-up
- Around time of surgery
Methodological detailsclinic-based screening program, single-centre
- Clinic-based screening program
- Single-centre
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
HRQoL (PedsQL)
- Significantly higher health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in TC than other pediatric cancers for all but emotional and school functioning
- Significantly lower functioning in TC than healthy youth, except comparable social functioning
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
Predictors of HRQoL
- No significant differences in HRQoL by disease severity, thyroid disease history or treatment
- Patient distress was associated with HRQoL
Original publication
Health-Related Quality of Life at Diagnosis for Pediatric Thyroid Cancer Patients. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Published 4 November 2022. doi:10.
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