Comprehensive head and neck oncology health status assessment

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Abstract
Background.: This article presents the validation of the Head and Neck Cancer Inventory (HNCI), a health status assessment instrument with a small number of multiple‐item domains that captures patients' ratings of functional status and attitude about that function.Methods.: The HNCI was administered to patients with upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma. An initial, cross‐sectional study assessed feasibility and reliability. A subsequent, longitudinal study's factor analysis identified ineffective items and confirmed domain cohesiveness. Construct and criterion‐related validity and sensitivity to detect change across time were evaluated.Results.: The HNCI was highly reliable. Criterion‐related validity was demonstrated through comparisons with other HNC‐specific instruments. Construct validity was demonstrated based on significant differences between patient groups (HNC/non‐HNC, employment status, clinical stage, and type of treatment). Domain scores were sensitive to change across time. The domains' functional and attitudinal scores were significantly different.Conclusions.: The HNCI is a reliable, valid instrument that evaluates the functional and attitudinal components of health status in HNC patients. This survey is recommended for self‐reported health status evaluation in HNC clinical trials. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 25: 561–575, 2003

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