Ethnic differential item functioning in the assessment of quality of life in cancer patients.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Past research has shown that Filipino cancer patients report lower levels of quality of life (QoL) than other ethnic groups. One possible explanation for this is that Filipinos do not define QoL in the same manner as others, resulting in bias in their assessments. Hence, Filipinos would not necessarily have lower QoL.

Methods

Item response theory methods were used to assess differential item functioning (DIF) in the quality of life (measured by the EORTC QLQ-C30) of cancer patients across four ethnic groups (Caucasian, Filipino, Hawaiian, and Japanese). The sample consisted of 359 cancer patients.

Results

Results showed the presence of DIF on several items, indicating ethnic differences in the assessment of quality of life. Relative to the Caucasian and Jap

SUBMITTER: Pagano IS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1277838 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature