Multidimensional assessment of quality of life in clinical studies

Four types of issues in conducting a multidimensional assessment of quality of life in clinical studies are presented: practical issues, measurement issues, data quality issues, and data analysis issues. The various issues are described, and ways of dealing with the issues are discussed. Examples are used from the literature and also from the author's multivariate, longitudinal study on quality of life in cardiac transplant patients. Consideration of these issues and knowing options for dealing with them before the study is conducted is imperative. With a carefully thought out approach to better planning of the study, the clinician/investigator can conduct a scientifically sound study with credible results that will provide meaningful direction for improving the quality of life of clinical populations in the future.