Publication: Validation of Nepali Version of the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire for Head and Neck Cancer Patients.
Date
2025
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nepal Medical Association
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Quality of Life (QoL) encompasses physical, functional, emotional, and social wellbeing, often assessed via self-reported questionnaires. The University of Washington Quality of Life (UW-QOL) instrument, designed for Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients, is a validated, concise, and practical tool widely used in clinical settings. The objective of the study was to translate and assess the content and face validity of the Nepali version of the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UWQOLv4.1-N) and evaluate its psychometric properties in HNC patients.
Methods: Quality of Life (QoL) encompasses physical, functional, emotional, and social well-being,
often assessed via self-reported questionnaires. The University of Washington Quality of Life (UWQOL) instrument, designed for Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) patients, is a validated, concise, and practical tool widely used in clinical settings. The objective of the study was to translate and assess the content and face validity of the Nepali version of the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UWQOLv4.1-N) and evaluate its psychometric properties in HNC patients.
Results: The UWQOLv4.1-N demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.87), and excellent test-retest reliability and stability (r = 0.93). A strong correlation (r > 0.50) was observed between similar domains of the UWQOL and EORTC QLQ-C30 and HN355. UWQOL composite scores demonstrated a strong correlation with all domains of global questions at admission, as well as after 3 and 6 months of treatment (p< 0.01).
Conclusions: The Nepali version of UWQOLv4.1-N is a valid and reliable instrument to assess the QoL of HNC patients in Nepal.
Description
Deepak Paudel
BPKIHS, Department of ENT and Head & Neck Surgery, Dharan, Nepal
Anil Bikram Karki
BP Memorial Cancer Hospital, Department of Surgical Oncology, Head & Neck Surgery Unit
Bibas Parajuli
Butwal Provincial Hospital, Butwal, Nepal