A Comparison of Quality of Life Measures in Husbands of Women with Breast Cancer

Christina D. Wagner () and Silvia M. Bigatti ()
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Christina D. Wagner: DePauw University
Silvia M. Bigatti: Indiana University Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health

Applied Research in Quality of Life, 2016, vol. 11, issue 3, No 18, 955-969

Abstract: Abstract The Quality of Well-Being Scale (QWB-SA) and Medical Outcome Study SF-36 short form (SF-36) are popular health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessment tools; however, it is unclear whether these measures overlap enough to be interchangeable, and if not, which might be a better choice. This study examined conceptual overlap, validity, and relation with psychosocial functioning of the QWB-SA and SF-36 in a sample of partners of women undergoing adjuvant treatment for breast cancer. Partners (n = 79) of breast cancer patients, recruited in a chemotherapy infusion clinic, completed the QWB-SA and SF-36 and additional psychosocial measures. Descriptive content review shows that both instruments provide a breadth of HRQOL coverage including physical health, mental health, social functioning, role functioning and general health perceptions; however, more QWB-SA scales suffered floor effects. Subscales correlated, with the strongest correlations between the QWB-SA total score and the mental health scales of the SF-36. The QWB-SA and the SF-36 Mental Health Component Summary score, but not the SF-36 Physical Component Summary score were strongly correlated to measures of mood, satisfaction with life, burden, and social support. The QWB-SA and SF-36 measure distinct aspects of HRQOL. Each instrument presents distinct advantages and disadvantages in coverage of particular domains. Labels assigned to SF-36 scales more accurately reflect what they measure. The SF-36 appeared more sensitive to the impact that psychological health played on overall assessment of HRQOL in these partners.

Keywords: Quality of life; SF-36; QWB-SA; Breast cancer; Partners (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1007/s11482-015-9413-z

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