Diabetes-Specific Quality of Life of Korean Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the quality of life of children in Korea with type 1 diabetes and related factors. METHODS: Children were recruited from a diabetes camp. Data were collected using four instruments: the PedsQL 3.2 Diabetes Module, Self-Efficacy for Diabetes Self-Management, the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children, and the Diabetes Management Behavior Scale. RESULTS: Children who were older (t = 2.197, p = .041), male (t = -3.579, p = .002), and less depressed (t = -2.859, p = .010) were more likely to have better quality of life. CONCLUSION: Further research is needed in children with type 1 diabetes in countries where this disease is rare, and governmental support and public awareness are limited.