Confirmatory factor analysis of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality-of-Life Inventory Cancer Module

Abstract

Background: Before the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality-of-Life Inventory Cancer Module can be used to assess the multidimensional construct of quality of life among Hong Kong Chinese pediatric patients with cancer, its psychometric properties need to be further empirically tested.

Objective: The objectives of the study were to establish the construct validity, including hypothesis testing and a confirmatory factor analysis of factor structure, of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality-of-Life Inventory Cancer Module.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was used; 200 children hospitalized with cancer (9- to 16-year-olds) were recruited. Participants were asked to respond to the Chinese version of the Cancer Module, Therapy-Related Symptom Checklist, and Rosenberg's Self-esteem Scale.

Results: The results showed that there was a strong positive correlation between children's self-esteem and quality of life (r = 0.50) and a strong negative correlation between children's therapy-related symptoms and quality of life (r = -0.65). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that there were 7 factors underlying the Chinese version of the Cancer Module.

Conclusion: The study added further evidence of the construct validity of the Chinese version of the Cancer Module, patient version.

Implication for practice: The Cancer Module can be used to assess and evaluate psychological interventions directed toward promoting the quality of life of children hospitalized with cancer.