International validation of the revised European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck Cancer Module, the EORTC QLQ-HN43 - Phase IV

Background We validated the new European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Head and Neck Module (EORTC QLQ-HN43). Methods We enrolled 812 head and neck cancer patients from 18 countries. Group 1 completed the questionnaire before therapy, and 3 and 6 months later. In Group 2 (survivors), we determined test-retest reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha, the scale structure with confirmatory factor analysis, and discriminant validity with known-group comparisons. Results Cronbach’s Alpha was >0.70 in 10 of the 12 multi-item scales. All standardised factor loadings exceeded 0.40. The ICC was >0.70 in all but two scales. Differences in scale scores between known-groups were >10 points in 17 of the 19 scales. Sensitivity to change was found to be sufficient in 18 scales. Conclusions Evidence supports the reliability and validity of the EORTC QLQ-HN43 as a measure of QoL.