A psychometric analysis of the Quality of Life-Cancer Survivors (QOL-CS) in survivors of childhood cancer

Given the increasing interest in quality of life research in cancer survivo rship, psychometric properties of the Quality of Life-Cancer Survivors (QOL -CS) were explored in a group of childhood cancer survivors. The QOL-CS is a 41-item visual analog scale composed of four multi-item sub-scales (physi cal well-being, psychological well-being, social well-being, spiritual well -being) and two sub-components (fears, distress). This instrument was incor porated in a mailed survey completed by 177 respondents. The underlying fac tor structure and internal reliability of the instrument were explored. A p reliminary assessment of the external validity of the factor structure was undertaken. Results of a factor analysis were theoretically consistent with elements assessed in the QOL-CS, although misclassification of several ite ms was noted and discussed. Internal-consistency reliability was very good (Cronbach's alpha = 0.80-0.89) for five of the six factors. Moderate (0.30 < r < 0.45) to high (r > 0.60) concurrent validity was observed for four fa ctors. Discriminant validity was noted across groups defined by health and social status variables. Psychometric analysis indicated that the instrumen t measured distinct and relevant domains of quality of life for childhood c ancer survivors, but in its current form does not appear to be an optimal m easure of quality of life in this population.