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Development and assessment of the constipation-related disability scale
S L Hart1, J J Albiani, C J Crangle
1Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada. stacey.hart@psych.ryerson.ca
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|November 19, 2011
Summary
The new Constipation-Related Disability Scale (CRDS) effectively measures how chronic constipation impacts daily life. This validated tool demonstrates strong reliability and validity for assessing functional limitations in constipated individuals.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychometrics
- Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Chronic constipation significantly impairs quality of life and causes physical discomfort.
- Limited research has explored the link between daily activity limitations and psychological distress in constipated populations.
- Existing tools do not adequately assess the functional disability associated with chronic constipation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the Constipation-Related Disability Scale (CRDS).
- To assess the extent of disability caused by chronic constipation.
- To provide a reliable and valid instrument for measuring constipation's impact on daily activities.
Main Methods:
- 240 constipated participants and 103 healthy controls completed the CRDS.
- Reliability assessed using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients.
- Convergent, divergent, and predictive validity were evaluated using established scales and clinical data.
Main Results:
- Factor analysis identified two key factors: Work/Leisure Activities and Activities of Daily Living.
- The CRDS demonstrated strong reliability (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.87, ICC ≥ 0.85).
- The scale showed good convergent validity with physical health measures (SF-36) and predictive validity with healthcare utilization (physician visits, missed work, ER visits).
Conclusions:
- The Constipation-Related Disability Scale (CRDS) is the first instrument specifically designed to quantify constipation-related disability.
- The CRDS exhibits robust reliability and validity.
- This scale offers a valuable tool for clinicians and researchers to understand and address the functional impact of constipation.
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