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Validation of the 5-D Itch Scale in Three Ethnic Groups and Exploring Optimal Cutoff Values Using the Itch Numerical
H N Cheung1, Y S Chan2, N H Hsiung3
1Department of Social Science, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong.
Biomed Research International
|December 23, 2021
Summary
The 5-D itch scale is a valid tool for assessing chronic pruritus across Black, Asian, and Hispanic populations. This study established its cutoff values, aiding in accurate pruritus severity assessment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Psychometrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Chronic pruritus significantly impacts emotional and psychosocial well-being.
- Self-report questionnaires are crucial for quantifying pruritus severity.
- Cultural adaptation of assessment tools is needed for diverse populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- Validate the 5-D itch scale in Black, Asian, and Hispanic ethnic groups.
- Establish cutoff values for the 5-D itch scale using ROC analysis.
- Compare the prevalence of itch and depression across these ethnic groups.
Main Methods:
- Recruited community samples from an online platform (Qualtrics).
- Administered Itch-NRS, 5-D itch scale, and PHQ-9 questionnaires.
- Conducted subgroup analyses for validity and cutoff values; evaluated concurrent prevalence.
Main Results:
- 2323 participants included; significant positive correlation between Itch-NRS, WI-NRS, and 5-D itch scale (p < 0.001).
- Established 5-D itch scale cutoff values for each ethnic group via ROC analysis.
- Identified concurrent prevalence of itch and depression.
Conclusions:
- The 5-D itch scale exhibits strong psychometric properties across diverse ethnic groups.
- The scale demonstrates a close relationship with the Itch-NRS.
- Consideration of ethnic-specific cutoff values is recommended to refine pruritus severity assessment.
