Gynecologic needs among a population of survivors of torture in New York City

population in Sri Lanka.Our project aimed to assess psychiatric morbidity and quality of life in these patients, and the correlation with demographic and illness-related variables.Data on the psychosocial parameters in these patients could enhance management of the disease and inform more comprehensive treatment interventions.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the National Thalassemia Unit at the University of Kelaniya Teaching Hospital in Sri Lanka, the only adult treatment facility for thalassemia in the country.Patients with thalassemia major, minor or intermedia (Eb), above 12 years of age, and in stable medical condition (n¼120) were recruited.Participants were assessed using a general demographic questionnaire, the Beck Depression Index and the WHO Quality of Life BREF.Statistical analysis was conducted using linear regressions, Chi squares and ANOVAs.Ethics approval was obtained from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Kelaniya and written consent was obtained from all participants.Results: Lack of family support, longer clinic admission, and the female gender were significant determinants (p<0.05) of higher depression scores and reduced physical health quality of life in our patient population.In addition, psychological and social quality of life were positively correlated with levels of peer support (p<0.05).However, there was no association between type of thalassemia and depression scores or quality of life.Conclusions: Overall, study results show that several factors influence depression and quality of life among patients with thalassemia in Sri Lanka, with gender playing an important role.Development of psychosocial interventions that address these factors and the gender differences could be highly useful in improving function and reducing disability in this population.

Abstract licence: CC BY

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