Exploring EQ-5D-Y-3L Experience-Based VAS Values Derived Among Adolescents

The EQ-5D-Y-3L is a generic health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument, developed from the adult version to be suitable for children and adolescents aged 8-15 years. To derive values for the EQ-5D-Y-3L different valuation methods and perspectives have been applied. The aim of this study was to explore EQ-5D-Y-3L experience-based visual analogue scale (VAS) values derived among adolescents.

Data were derived from a cross-sectional population survey administered via schools in 2014 to adolescents aged 13-18 years, in Sweden. Regression analyses were performed on individual data with the VAS value as dependent variable. Ordinary least-squares (OLS) and generalised linear models (GLM) were estimated with two dummy variables for each of the EQ-5D-Y-3L dimensions. Interaction variables were tested. One way of anchoring VAS at dead and full health by using the predicted values for worst and best health states defined by the EQ-5D-Y-3L descriptive system was explored.

Of the 243 possible health states in EQ-5D-Y-3L, 92 were reported by the 6,468 respondents. The largest decrements in VAS values were observed for the dimension 'feeling worried, sad or unhappy' followed by 'doing usual activities'. All models performed similarly in terms of monotonicity and goodness of fit but in terms of simplicity and understandability, the OLS main effect model was superior.

We have explored experience-based VAS values for the EQ-5D-Y-3L derived among adolescents. The findings suggest that it is possible for adolescents to value their own health state using the VAS, which makes it possible to capture aspects that are important for young people.