Quality of life in parents of children and adolescents after systemic sting reactions

Abstract
Introduction and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA) in children and adolescents on their parents’ quality of life (QoL), with a focus on socio-demographic factors.

Materials and Methods: The study involved 101 parents of children and adolescents aged 9 to 17 years, all with a history of systemic reactions following insect stings, who were referred for consultation at a tertiary allergology department. The parents had a mean age of 39 years (SD=8.1; range 25-65 years), with most being mothers (68%) and residing in rural areas (62%). The QoL of parents was assessed using the Parents of Children with Hymenoptera Venom Allergy Quality of Life Scale, which includes five dimensions: anxiety, caution, limitations and discomfort, support for the child, and feelings of safety. Each dimension was rated on a scale from 1 to 5. Independent predictors of QoL were analyzed using a Generalized Linear Model.

Results: Parents of children and adolescents in urban areas who had received venom immunotherapy (VIT) for up to 3 years reported significantly lower anxiety levels (B=-1.37, 95% CI=(-2.22; -0.53); p=0.001). Similarly, parents of rural children treated for over 3 years reported lower anxiety compared to those at diagnosis (B=-0.94, 95% CI=(-1.55; -0.33); p=0.003). Urban parents who were evaluated at the beginning of VIT reported a lower sense of safety (B=-0.63, 95% CI=(-1.11; -0.15); p=0.010), while those evaluated after up to 3 years of treatment reported a higher sense of safety (B=0.64, 95% CI=(0.11; 1.16); p=0.018). In contrast, rural parents assessed at the start of VIT reported a greater sense of safety compared to those at diagnosis (B=0.51, 95% CI=(0.13; 0.88); p=0.008).

Conclusions: Longer durations of VIT for children and adolescents with HVA are SR-717 associated with reduced anxiety in their parents. Parents’ sense of safety is influenced by both the stage of treatment and their place of residence.