Comprehensive head and neck oncology health status assessment

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.

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.

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.

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.