The Norwegian Polio Study 1994 part II: Early experiences of polio and later psychosocial well-being

Abstract

Study design: The Norwegian Polio Study 1994 was a nation-wide survey of the medical and psychosocial situation of polio survivors. Method: A questionnaire, consisting of 133 questions with sub-questions, was sent to a total of 2392 polio victims, most of them registered in 'The National Society of Polio Victims' in Norway. 1449 (61%) answered. Objectives: To investigate the relationship between early polio experiences, such as duration of hospitalization and perceived support, and later psychosocial well-being. Results: Three hundred and ninety-one persons (27%) reported they had been psychologically harmed by the treatment received at the time they contracted polio (Harmed group), while 1053 persons (73%) did not (Non-Harmed group). Persons in the Harmed group were significantly younger at polio onset, were hospitalized for a longer period and had less parental visit and support. Today they use more medication, report more pain, general fatigue, sleep disturbance and concentration problems, more psychosocial distress, less satisfaction with life and less social support than persons in the Non-Harmed group. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that a subgroup of polio survivors has been vulnerable from childhood, with possible consequences for their physical, psychological and social wellbeing later in life. Recommendations for long-life treatment of children with similar diseases should include follow-up not only of their physical disabilities, but also on psychological and psychosocial needs.