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Comprehensive head and neck oncology health status assessment
Gerry F Funk1, Lucy Hynds Karnell, Alan J Christensen
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Rm 21201 PFP, 200 Hawkins Drive, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA. gerry-funk@uiowa.edu
Background:
This article presents the validation of the Head and Neck Cancer Inventory (HNCI), a health status assessment instrument with a small number of multiple-item domains that captures patients' ratings of functional status and attitude about that function.
Methods:
The HNCI was administered to patients with upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma. An initial, cross-sectional study assessed feasibility and reliability. A subsequent, longitudinal study's factor analysis identified ineffective items and confirmed domain cohesiveness. Construct and criterion-related validity and sensitivity to detect change across time were evaluated.
Results:
The HNCI was highly reliable. Criterion-related validity was demonstrated through comparisons with other HNC-specific instruments. Construct validity was demonstrated based on significant differences between patient groups (HNC/non-HNC, employment status, clinical stage, and type of treatment). Domain scores were sensitive to change across time. The domains' functional and attitudinal scores were significantly different.
Conclusions:
The HNCI is a reliable, valid instrument that evaluates the functional and attitudinal components of health status in HNC patients. This survey is recommended for self-reported health status evaluation in HNC clinical trials.