The Social and Financial Burden on Families of Type 1 Diabetic Pediatric Patients in Madinah Region, Saudi Arabia.

INTRODUCTION

Caregivers and families play an essential role in managing and caring for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) pediatric patients. However, caregiving is usually associated with social and financial burdens. This study assesses the burden and underlying social and financial factors among Saudi caregivers of pediatric patients with T1DM.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among caregivers and families of T1DM pediatric patients attending the Diabetic Center at King Fahad Hospital (KFH) and the Diabetic Center at King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Medical City (KSAMC) in Al-Madinah City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) from January 2024 to June 2024. The data collection was done using the Zarit Burden Questionnaire and the Caregiver Care Cost Assessment Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The study surveyed 376 participants, primarily females (N = 285, 75.8%) and married (N = 317, 84.3%), with a majority aged between 18 and 47 years (N = 322, 85.6%). The burden experienced by families with T1DM pediatric patients was moderate, with a mean total burden level score of 27.8 ± 16.3. For those employed, most reported working as usual (N = 107, 81.1%), with most spending less than two hours on care weekly (N = 76, 57.6%). A significant association was found between the financial impact of caregiving on saving, spending, and general financial stress and social burden (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The findings show a moderate burden faced by caretakers of T1DM pediatric patients, with a strong correlation between the financial impact of caregiving on saving, spending, and general financial stress and burden level. The findings also highlight the significant impact of caregiving on the financial stress and lifestyle changes that caregivers endure.