Korean version of the overactive bladder symptom score questionnaire: translation and linguistic validation

The overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS) consists of 4 questions regarding OAB symptoms. The aim of this study was to develop Korean version of the OABSS from the original Japanese version, with subsequent linguistic validation.

Between February and May 2008, the translation and linguistic validation process was performed as follows: a forward translation, reconciliation, backward translation, cognitive debriefing, and final proofreading.

A forward translation from the original version of the OABSS to the Korean language was carried out by 2 native Korean speakers, who were also fluent in Japanese. Reconciliation was made after review of both translations by a panel consisting of both translators and one of the authors. Another bilingual translator who had never seen the original version of the OABSS carried out a translation of the reconciled version back into Japanese, and the original and backward-translated versions were subsequently compared. After discussion of all discrepancies between both versions by the panel, a second Korean version was produced. During cognitive debriefing, 5 outpatients with OAB reported that each question of the Korean version was significant and appropriate for their symptoms. However, 2 patients said that some parts of the questions or instructions were not clear or were not easy to understand. According to the cognitive debriefing, some words and phrases were revised into more understandable expressions.

A Korean version of the OABSS was developed and linguistic validation was performed. Further studies are needed to assess the reproducibility and validity of the questionnaire in Korean populations.