Perception of health and illness and quality of life after total thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma: PERSAM study

The primary aim of this study is to assess the quality of life and perception of illness among patients admitted for radiometabolic therapy, post total thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma. The secondary aim is to identify which patient characteristics are associated with a lower quality of life in order to improve and personalise care.   Three questionnaires were administered: Psychological General Well- Being Index (PGWBI), the Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) and the Short Form Survey (SF-12). A descriptive statistics analysis and multiple linear regression models were performed to explore the relationship between some of the variables. There is evidence of moderate distress in psychological well-being and good perception of pathology. Physical well-being: limitations in self-care and moderately physically demanding activities. Mental health: more information to patients decreases the degree of stress and promotes 'positive' emotions. Physical health status: a long-term activity programme, characterised by aerobic exercises to be performed in groups or at home, is useful. This study allows us to transpose the results into clinical practice, evaluating the possibility and methods of providing personalised care to patients.