Sarcouncil Journal of Medical Series

Abstract: Background: Thalassemia results from genetic mutations encoding the alpha or beta-globin chains of hemoglobin. The disease exerts profound effects on the growth, physical development, and quality of life of patients, while imposing financial and healthcare burdens on their families and the community. Establishing an appropriate nutritional regimen will contribute to enhancing treatment efficacy and improving the quality of life for children with thalassemia. Objective: To assess the nutritional knowledge of mothers whose children with thalassemia are undergoing treatment at the Tay Nguyen Regional General Hospital and to identify several related factors. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 130 mothers of children with thalassemia treated at the Tay Nguyen Regional General Hospital who consented to participate in the study. Results: 98.5% of the mothers knew to supplement calcium-rich foods in the diet; 88.5% knew that children with thalassemia require a diet rich in protein and vitamins; 82.3% knew that high-iron foods should be restricted; 49.2% correctly understood the benefits of drinking fresh green tea after meals. Overall, 74.6% of the mothers possessed correct nutritional knowledge. Mothers who had received nutritional counseling demonstrated significantly better knowledge than those who had not (p < 0.05). Conclusion: 74.6% of the mothers had correct nutritional knowledge. Most mothers were knowledgeable about calcium supplementation, protein- and vitamin-rich diets, and iron-restricted diets, including iron-rich foods. Further research on the nutritional attitudes and practices of mothers of children with thalassemia in Dak Lak province is needed to enhance the future quality of life for these children.