Abstract
Background: The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cognitive Function (FACT-Cog) scale is a self-assessment scale validated in routine clinical practice to assess cognitive function in cancer patients. This study aimed to validate the 37-item version of FACT-Cog exploring particularly the psychometric properties of four items related to multitasking that were not previously included in the scoring algorithm and assess its correlates in Lebanese cancer patients.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out including 261 patients with breast, colorectal and lung cancers undergoing chemotherapy (Ethics: CEHDF1016). Validity was confirmed using a factor analyses using the principal component analysis technique with a varimax rotation. Analyses of internal consistency, “test-retest" reliability, and convergent validity were also performed. Finally, a multiple linear regression was conducted, using the total cognition scale as a dependent variable.Results: The scale had an appropriate construct validity, and items loaded on subscales with adequate sample adequacy to factor analyses outcomes. The test-retest reliability was appropriate for the total cognition score/all sub-scores except for the FACT-Cog QOL. Moreover, a weak but significant and inverse correlation between the FACT-Cog scores and patient’s pain, fatigue, anxiety and depression. Finally, better cognition functioning was noted with age and in working patients, whereas lower functioning was observed in previous smokers and in patients with ovary/brain metastasis. Conclusions: The 37-item tool is valid and reliable. Questions related to multitasking could be included in the scoring system.
Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cervix Questionnaire in Brazil
