Turkish Adaptation of QLQ-SH22 Quality of Sexual Life Assessment Scale in Cancer Patients - Validity and Reliability Study.

Abstract

Objectives: Cancer or its treatment can have direct or indirect effects on sexual functions. Routine assessment of sexual functioning is essential in cancer patients to identify sexual problems and provide counseling to patients about these issues. This study aimed to investigate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire - Sexual Health 22 prepared for the assessment of sexual function in cancer patients.

Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 201 patients, aged between 18-75, who received inpatient or outpatient treatment and treatment follow-up in the medical oncology unit of two private hospitals in Istanbul, regardless of cancer type, treatment stage and form. Language equivalence has been achieved. The validity of the scale was evaluated by factor analysis and the suitability of the model was determined by Goodness of Fit Indices. For the reliability of the scale, internal consistency was tested with Cronbach's alpha value. For consistency, a relationship was sought between the data taken 3 weeks apart using the test-retest method and the Spearman Correlation Test.

Results: Goodness of Fit Indices; It was calculated as Comparative Fit Index (CFI)=0.98, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI)=0.98 Goodness of Fit Index (GFI)=1.32, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA)=0.04, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR)=0.088. All factor loadings were found statistically significant with p<0.0001. In the internal consistency analysis, Cronbach alpha values of 0.91, 0.79 and 0.88 were obtained for sexual satisfaction, sexual pain subscales and all questions, respectively, and all groups were found to be reliable. In the Spearman Correlation Test used for consistency analysis, all coefficients were calculated above 0.7 and strong relationships were observed between the data. It was concluded that the scale was consistent in all areas.

Conclusion: All data obtained from the Turkish version of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire - Sexual Health 22 are valid and reliable.