Psychosocial factors affecting the quality of life of children and adolescents with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis

Introduction: In recent decades, the prevalence of chronic kidney disease in pediatric patients has been increasing rapidly. End-stage renal failure is a multidimensional disease, which has significant impacts on the psychosocial well-being of children and adolescents undergoing dialysis. The severity of illness, the weekly demands of dialysis, social isolation, school absences, physical or psychological strain degrade the overall well-being and quality of life (QoL) of children and their families

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to identify the psychosocial factors that positively or negatively affect the quality of life of children and adolescents with end-stage renal failure undergoing hemodialysis

Methods: A scoping review and data search were conducted in the electronic databases PubMed and Scopus, using the following keywords: Chronic Kidney Disease, Dialysis, Quality of Life, Psychosocial factors, Children and Adolescents. Studies involving children and adolescents in English and Greek, and studies published between 2015 and 2025 were included. The selection of articles for analysis was carried out using the PRISMA-Scr flowchart and the presentation of the results was performed in tabular form

Results: After searching the international literature, 530 articles emerged, of which 7 were included in this review. From this study, it emerged that psychosocial factors have a negative impact on the quality of life of both children and adolescents with end-stage renal disease and undergoing hemodialysis, as well as their families. However, with the appropriate contribution of support network from school or health professionals, the effects of psychosocial factors can be minimized

Conclusions: Children and adolescents with end-stage renal failure disease face multiple challenges in aspects of their daily lives, school and psychosocial well-being. Emotional and physical strain, due to illness or dialysis, stress and reduced social interaction can affect their quality of life. Nevertheless, family support, mental empowerment from specialists and the provision of psychosocial support, in a holistic context, can enhance the well-being and progress of children and adolescents, as well as improve their quality of life