A cumulative risk model predicting caregiver quality of life in pediatric asthma

Abstract

Objective: To examine the relationship between a cumulative risk model and caregiver quality of life (QOL) in pediatric asthma and determine whether caregiver QOL is predicted by a linear or quadratic model of cumulative risk. Methods: One hundred and ninety-three families of children between the ages of 5 and 12 years with mild to severe asthma completed a background questionnaire and measures of QOL, asthma severity, family burden, and family stress. A cumulative risk model based on risk factors from these measures was calculated for each caregiver. Results: The cumulative risk model significantly predicted caregiver QOL as a quadratic function. Caregivers with numerous risk factors experienced a dramatic worsening of QOL. Conclusions: Findings suggest that caregiver QOL is best predicted by the interaction and not the summation of these factors. Interventions focused on one area of family risk may be effective in reducing poor QOL in caregivers of children with asthma. © The Author 2008. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Pediatric Psychology. All rights reserved.