Quality of life of children and young adults with and without cardiovascular implantable electronic devices during the COVID‐19 pandemic

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundChildren with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) have a lower quality of life (QoL) compared to the general pediatric population. The combined effect of COVID‐19 and CIEDs on the QoL and physical activity (PA) both within and between each population is unknown.MethodsIndividuals 8–25‐year‐old with and without CIED's were recruited to complete a phone survey. Data collection included demographics, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), and the (PAQ). PedsQL and PAQ scores range from 0–100 and 1–5, respectively, with higher scores indicating a higher QoL and PA.ResultsOf the 190 individuals contacted, 148 participated (CIED n = 76, non‐CIED n = 72), for an 81% response rate. Participants with and without CIEDs were similar in age (15.5 vs. 16 years, p = .57), gender (male = 57% vs. 42%, p = .07), and self‐identified race (white = 79% vs. 81%, p = .44). CIED participants had a lower QoL (70.8 vs. 83.3, p < .001). Lower total scores were noted in CIED participants with structural heart disease compared to those without (71.6 vs. 83.6, p = .035) and those with a history of non‐CIED heart or chest surgery compared to those without (71.3 vs. 83.3, p = .035). PAQ scores were similarly lower for CIED participants (2.17 vs. 2.73, p < .001).ConclusionThe presence of a CIED negatively impacts the QoL and PA of the pediatric population in the setting of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Further research is needed to better understand and address the drivers of decreased QoL and PA in the pediatric CIED population in the setting of the COVID‐19 Pandemic.