Feasibility and psychometrics of an ambulatory hot flash monitoring device

Abstract

Objective: To assess the feasibility and psychometric properties of a lightweight, automated, ambulatory sternal skin conductance monitor to measure frequency of hot flashes (HFs) among breast cancer survivors (BCSs).

Design: A total of 19 postmenopausal BCSs and 5 premenopausal healthy comparison women participated by wearing the monitor for 24 h during their normal daily activities, including sleep. HFs were assessed using subjective (diaries, event markers) and objective (skin conductance) methods.

Results: Problems with subjective reporting of HFs were reported by 35% of BCSs. Technological problems and discomfort related to wearing the monitor were minimal. A total of 243 HFs were recorded using the skin conductance monitor by 17 BCSs and 5 premenopausal women (BCS group M = 13.4; range, 1-30). Subjective reporting of HFs was associated with a 31-33% false-positive rate. Skin conductance monitoring during waking hours was associated with a 30% false-negative rate.

Conclusions: The monitor is a feasible method for objectively assessing HFs in BCSs. Data support continued use of sternal skin conductance as an objective measure of HF frequency. This technology should prove useful as an objective measure of HFs in future intervention research aimed at alleviating the symptom and improving quality of life among BCSs.