A study on the quality of life of children with epilepsy and the impact of disease on family functioning
Abstract
Background: Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders in childhood and is associated with significant physical, emotional, social, and educational consequences. Beyond seizure control, children with epilepsy often experience impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL), while their caregivers face substantial psychosocial burden. So, the study is aimed to assess the QoL of children with epilepsy and to evaluate the impact of the disease on family functioning. Methods: This hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Paediatrics at Hi-Tech Medical College and Hospital over a period of January 2024 to December 2025. A total of 110 children aged 8-12 years with epilepsy and their primary caregivers were included. Data on demographic and clinical variables were collected using a structured proforma. QoL was assessed using the Pediatric QoL Inventory (PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic core scales) and family functioning was evaluated using the PedsQL™ family impact module. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 9.95±1.42 years, with a male predominance (59.1%). The mean QoL score was 66.20±13.45, indicating moderate impairment, with emotional functioning being the most affected domain. The mean family impact score was 60.67±14.42. Children with uncontrolled seizures had significantly lower QoL scores compared to those with controlled seizures (p<0.001). Polytherapy and the presence of comorbidities were also associated with poorer QoL and greater family burden. Conclusions: Childhood epilepsy significantly impairs QoL and adversely affects family functioning. Clinical factors such as seizure control, treatment complexity, and comorbidities are key determinants of these outcomes. These findings highlight the need for a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, and family-centered approach to epilepsy management that extends beyond seizure control.