Validity of the EuroQoL (EQ-5D) instrument in a Greek general population

Value Health. 2008 Dec;11(7):1162-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4733.2008.00356.x. Epub 2008 May 16.

Abstract

Objectives: The main purpose of this study was to assess the construct validity of the Greek EQ-5D instrument in measuring health-related quality of life, as well as to address the issues of concurrent validity, internal consistency reliability, and sensitivity.

Methods: A stratified, representative sample (n = 1388) of the Greek general population was approached for interview (response rate 72.4%). The survey included the EQ-5D, the SF-36, and questions on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the sample.

Results: The EQ-5D dimensions, the EQ visual analog scale, and the UK-based utility index were capable of distinguishing between groups of respondents, in the expected manner, on the basis of sex, age, education, socioeconomic status, self-reported health problems, and health services utilization, thus providing evidence of construct validity. Convergent and divergent validity of the EQ-5D descriptive system were supported by expected relationships with SF-36 scale and summary scores. Additionally, reporting a problem in a given EQ dimension was generally associated with lower SF-36 scores, supporting concurrent validity. Internal consistency reliability and sensitivity were also satisfactorily demonstrated.

Conclusions: The results provide initial support for the construct validity of the EQ-5D in Greece, and, in conjunction to future studies addressing test-retest reliability and responsiveness, they support administering the instrument in health status studies, which in turn can contribute to transnational comparisons.

Publication types

  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cross-Cultural Comparison
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Greece
  • Health Surveys*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Quality of Life*
  • Young Adult