Dutch translation and validation of the Stanford Gender-Related Variables for Health Research questionnaire: Associations with lifestyle and mental health.

Abstract

This study aimed to validate the Dutch version of the Stanford Gender-Related Variables for Health Research (GVHR) questionnaire and explore sex differences in lifestyle factors, mental health, and health status. In 2021, 569 Dutch participants (54% women, 45% men, aged 20-80) completed the survey. Sex-stratified analyses examined associations with lifestyle (obesity, smoking, alcohol use, physical activity), mental health (depression, anxiety, stress), and overall health status. A seven-factor model best fit the data, revealing significant gendered differences. Women reported higher caregiver strain, discrimination, and emotional intelligence, while men reported more social support and risk-taking. In women findings were more pronounced, and caregiving strain was linked to psychological distress, whereas emotional intelligence and social support were protective. For men, gender discrimination was associated with smoking, depression, anxiety, stress, and poorer health status. The GVHR effectively assesses gender-related behaviors in Dutch samples, though further validation is needed in more diverse populations.