Psychosocial distress and functioning of Greek youth with cystic fibrosis: a cross-sectional study

Me, myself, and I: A systematic review of cystic fibrosis and self-concept

Given extensive pertinent disease factors and evolving medical treatments, this systematic review explores qualitative and quantitative cystic fibrosis (CF) research surrounding self-concept, an overarching perception of self. Research methodologies, self-concept dimensions, prominent self-concept findings and clinical recommendations are identified. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses guidelines were applied. PubMed, Scopus, Medline, Psycinfo, CINAHL (ebsco), and CENTRAL Cochrane electronic databases were searched from 2012 to 2022. Methodological quality was assessed using the critical appraisal skills program. Data-based convergent synthesis was applied to analyze and report on qualitative and quantitative studies in parallel. Thirty-seven publications met the inclusion criteria, most of which employed a cross-sectional, single-center design within an adolescent and adult population. Self-efficacy, self-esteem, and self-identity studies were dimensions of self-concept identified, with studies relating to self-efficacy surrounding physical health management most prevalent. All three dimensions were positively associated with improved treatment adherence and psychosocial health. Efficacy tested intervention programs to enhance self-concept are limited; however, an extensive range of clinical recommendations are offered, highlighting the importance of clinician self-concept awareness, quality clinician-patient conversations and online CF peer-support. Self-concept is an important mechanism to optimize patient outcomes. Further CF self-concept research is required, particularly multicenter, longitudinal, and interventional studies. Early childhood, post lung transplant and the older adult CF population in particular, lack research attention. Given the potential impact of rapidly evolving CF transmembrane conductance regulator modulator drugs on many aspects of self, future self-concept research beyond the dimension of self-efficacy may be beneficial.

Factors associated with anxiety in family caregivers of children with chronic diseases

BACKGROUND

Currently, information on factors associated with anxiety in family caregivers of children with chronic diseases is unavailable, indicating a significant gap in the literature. Therefore, this study aims to identify the psychosocial and sociodemographic variables associated with anxiety in family caregivers of children with chronic diseases.

METHODS

In 2018, a nonprobability sample of 446 family caregivers was recruited at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. The participants completed a sociodemographic variable questionnaire, clinical questions, and 18 psychosocial assessment scales, including a scale to assess family caregiver anxiety.

RESULTS

Family caregiver anxiety was correlated with almost all psychosocial variables and one out of three clinical variables but with none of the sociodemographic variables. Furthermore, a multiple linear regression model with five psychosocial variables was established to predict family caregiver anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Some psychosocial variables have effects on caregiver anxiety that are relevant for interventions. Clinical interventions should be implemented based on the psychosocial variables associated with family caregiver anxiety.