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Quality of life in patients with lung cancer
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Quality of life in patients with lung cancer

Abstract

In this chapter we compare the development, characteristics, validity and reliability of two widely used quality of life (QOL) assessment tools in lung cancer: the EORTC QLQLC13 and the FACT-L. The authors found that both questionnaires were developed from input of patients and health care professionals. The QLQ-LC13 is a 13-item instrument that assesses coughing, hemoptysis, dyspnea and pain and the side effects of treatment. Two international field studies have concluded that the QLQ-LC13 is clinically valid and useful. Conversely, the FACT-L assesses general QOL and seven lung cancer-specific items, such as shortness of breath, weight loss, cough, and appetite. In a study of 116 lung cancer patients, the FACT-L was found to have a good internal consistency, reliability, and sensitivity to changes in performance status. Ultimately, both the EORTC QLQ-LC13 and the FACT-L have been sufficiently validated; as such, decision-making should depend on the needs of the investigation.

Authors

DiGiovanni J; Popovic M; Chow E; Cella D; Beaumont JL; Nguyen J; Chu D; Adili A; Pulenzas N; Lechner B

Book title

Cancer Treatment Decision Making and Quality of Life

Pagination

pp. 79-92

Publication Date

January 1, 2016

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