Health-related quality of life and associated factors in children with bronchiectasis: A systematic review

This systematic review aimed to summarize the current evidence on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its associated factors in children with bronchiectasis. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, CENTRAL, CNKI, WanFang, VIP, and CBM published from inception to October 2025. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality using standardized tools. Descriptive synthesis was performed. Nine studies were included, with overall moderate to high quality. HRQoL scores in children with bronchiectasis were significantly lower than those in healthy controls across most scales, though findings varied across physical and psychosocial domains. Parent-proxy scores were generally lower than child self-reports. Lower HRQoL was associated with impaired lung function, frequent exacerbations, higher symptom burden, and anxiety/depression.

HRQoL is substantially impaired in children with bronchiectasis. Routine assessment of HRQoL and integrated interventions addressing both physical and psychosocial aspects are warranted in clinical practice.

• Bronchiectasis is a chronic respiratory disease that causes coughing and breathing difficulties in children. • Previous studies have reported inconsistent findings on quality of life in children with bronchiectasis.

• This systematic review consolidates evidence from nine studies, confirming that children with bronchiectasis have significantly lower quality of life than healthy children. • Poor lung function, frequent exacerbations, and anxiety/depression are key determinants; parents tend to rate their child's quality of life lower than the children themselves, underscoring the need for integrated care including psychological support.