Impact of Biologic Therapy, School Success, Parent's Education and Socioeconomic Status on Transition Readiness in Adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Their Parents.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of biologic therapy, school success, parental education and socioeconomic status on transition readiness of adolescent patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and their parents.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study enrolled adolescent patients with JIA from two pediatric clinics. Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score was calculated, and Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) was administered to the patients and their parents. Demographic and clinical data were collected.

RESULTS

The study included 91 JIA patients (median age 15.32 years, range 11.58-18 years) and their parents; 36 had active disease. Biologic usage was significantly associated with transition readiness of children (P = 0.038) and their parents (P = 0.035). School success was associated with higher levels of transition readiness; TRAQ was significantly lower in observed groups with "good" school success compared to "very good" (P = 0.024; P = 0.002) and "excellent" (P = 0.010; P = 0.012). Parents' education or socioeconomic status has no influence on transition readiness.

CONCLUSION

Biologic usage and better school performance have a positive impact on the patients and their parents' transition readiness.