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Ware JE, Richardson MM, Meyer KB, Gandek B. Improving CKD-Specific Patient-Reported Measures of Health-Related Quality of Life. J Am Soc Nephrol 2019; 30:664-677. [PMID: 30898870 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2018080814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient-reported outcome measures that are more practical and clinically useful are needed for patients with CKD. We compared a new CKD-specific quality-of-life impact scale (CKD-QOL) with currently used measures. METHODS Patients (n=485) in different treatment groups (nondialysis stages 3-5, on dialysis, or post-transplant) completed the kidney-specific CKD-QOL and Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36 (KDQOL-36) forms and the generic SF-12 Health Survey at baseline and 3 months. New items summarizing quality of life (QOL) impact attributed to CKD across six QOL domains yielded single impact scores from a six-item static (fixed-length) form and from computerized adaptive tests (CATs) with three to six items. Validity tests compared the CKD-QOL, KDQOL-36 (Burden, Effects, and Symptoms/Problems subscales), and generic SF-12 measures across groups in four tests of clinical status and clinician assessment of change (CKD-specific tests), and number of comorbidities. ANOVA was used to test for group mean differences, variances in each measure explained by groups, and relative validity (RV) in comparison with the referent KDQOL-36 Burden subscale. RESULTS KDQOL-36 and CKD-QOL measures generally discriminated better than generic SF-12v2 measures. The pattern of variances across CKD-specific tests comparing validity favored CKD-QOL two-fold over KDQOL-36. Two RV test results confirmed CKD-QOL improvements over the referent KDQOL scale. Results for static and CAT CKD-QOL forms were similar. SF-12 Physical and KDQOL-36 Symptoms scores worsened with increasing comorbid condition counts. CONCLUSIONS Overall, compared with the KDQOL-36, the new approach to summarizing CKD-specific QOL impact performed better across multiple tests of validity. CAT surveys were more efficient than static surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E Ware
- John Ware Research Group, Outcomes Measurement Department, Watertown, Massachusetts; .,Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Michelle M Richardson
- William B. Schwartz Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; and.,Dialysis Clinic, Inc., Outcomes Monitoring Program, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Klemens B Meyer
- William B. Schwartz Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; and.,Dialysis Clinic, Inc., Outcomes Monitoring Program, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Barbara Gandek
- John Ware Research Group, Outcomes Measurement Department, Watertown, Massachusetts.,Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The review provides an overview of the results of asthma clinical trials published in peer review journals in the last 18 months that evaluated patient-reported outcomes (PROs). RECENT FINDINGS In the last 10 years, health care moved toward a patient-centered approach, which includes patients' perspectives reflecting the impact of a disease and its treatment. SUMMARY Surprisingly, among the almost 300 clinical trials published in the last one and a half year, PRO evaluation was performed in only 20 studies, and none of them held in a real-life setting. The effort of applying the scientific methods of PRO investigations in asthma clinical trials following a rigorous and systematic approach needs to be highly improved to allow better understanding of patient reported factors. Some recommendations are drawn particularly about PRO assessment in personalized medicine research. The ability of an individual PRO to evaluate choice of treatment and its effectiveness remains to be achieved.
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Kaambwa B, Chen G, Ratcliffe J, Iezzi A, Maxwell A, Richardson J. Mapping Between the Sydney Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-S) and Five Multi-Attribute Utility Instruments (MAUIs). PHARMACOECONOMICS 2017; 35:111-124. [PMID: 27557995 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-016-0446-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Economic evaluation of health services commonly requires information regarding health-state utilities. Sometimes this information is not available but non-utility measures of quality of life may have been collected from which the required utilities can be estimated. This paper examines the possibility of mapping a non-utility-based outcome, the Sydney Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-S), onto five multi-attribute utility instruments: Assessment of Quality of Life 8 Dimensions (AQoL-8D), EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L), Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3), 15 Dimensions (15D), and the Short-Form 6 Dimensions (SF-6D). METHODS Data for 856 individuals with asthma were obtained from a large Multi-Instrument Comparison (MIC) survey. Four statistical techniques were employed to estimate utilities from the AQLQ-S. The predictive accuracy of 180 regression models was assessed using six criteria: mean absolute error (MAE), root mean squared error (RMSE), correlation, distribution of predicted utilities, distribution of residuals, and proportion of predictions with absolute errors <0.0.5. Validation of initial 'primary' models was carried out on a random sample of the MIC data. RESULTS Best results were obtained with non-linear models that included a quadratic term for the AQLQ-S score along with demographic variables. The four statistical techniques predicted models that performed differently when assessed by the six criteria; however, the best results, for both the estimation and validation samples, were obtained using a generalised linear model (GLM estimator). CONCLUSIONS It is possible to predict valid utilities from the AQLQ-S using regression methods. We recommend GLM models for this exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Billingsley Kaambwa
- Flinders Health Economics Group, Flinders University, A Block, Repatriation General Hospital, 202-16 Daws Road, Daw Park, Adelaide, SA, 5041, Australia.
| | - Gang Chen
- Centre for Health Economics, Building 75, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Julie Ratcliffe
- Flinders Health Economics Group, Flinders University, A Block, Repatriation General Hospital, 202-16 Daws Road, Daw Park, Adelaide, SA, 5041, Australia
| | - Angelo Iezzi
- Centre for Health Economics, Building 75, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Aimee Maxwell
- Centre for Health Economics, Building 75, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Jeff Richardson
- Centre for Health Economics, Building 75, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
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Radic S, Milenkovic B, Gvozdenovic B, Zivkovic Z, Pesic I, Babic D. The correlation between parental education and their knowledge of asthma. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2014; 42:518-26. [PMID: 24948185 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2013.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of parental education on the success of Asthma Educational Intervention (AEI). METHODS AEI took place after the children's hospitalisation. Parental asthma knowledge was assessed at three time points: before AEI, immediately after, and 12 months later. The Intervention (I) group of parents (N=231) received complete AEI. The Control (C) group of parents (N=71) received instructions for proper use of asthma medications and the handbook. RESULTS Asthma knowledge in I group increased immediately after the AEI (p<0.01), and had not changed (p>0.05) 12 months later. There were four subgroups in group I divided based on education level: elementary school, high school, college, and university degrees. Taking into account the parental education level, there were no differences in the baseline and final knowledge of asthma between subgroups (p>0.05). The number of asthma exacerbations decreased after AEI (5.96:2.50, p<0.01), regardless of the parental degree. Knowledge of asthma in group C did not improve during the study (p=0.17). Final asthma knowledge was higher in group I compared to group C (p<0.01). CONCLUSION The parental education level did not influence the level of asthma knowledge after the AEI. The motivation and the type of asthma education had the greatest input on the final results. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS All parents should be educated about asthma regardless of their general education.
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Sherbourne CD, Stucky BD, Edelen MO, Eberhart NK, Kleerup E, Lara M. Assessing the validity of the RAND negative impact of asthma on quality of life short forms. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2014; 134:900-7. [PMID: 24746752 PMCID: PMC4186891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Revised: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In response to recommendations from the 2010 National Institutes of Health Asthma Outcomes Workshop, we developed a system for measuring the negative impact of asthma on quality of life (QoL), which was referred to as the RAND Negative Impact of Asthma on Quality of Life (RAND-IAQL) item bank. The bank contains 65 items that focus on the patient's perception of the impact or bother of asthma on his or her life. OBJECTIVE Evidence for the validity of 2 short forms, the RAND-IAQL 4-item and 12-item Short Forms, from the bank is presented. METHODS Using a sample of 2032 adults with asthma, we validated our short forms against the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire-Marks (AQLQ-M), the Asthma Control Test, and generic measures of QoL developed by the Patient-reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). Discriminant validity was examined by comparing scores of respondents who differed according to multiple health indicators. RESULTS Our sample ranged in age from 18 to 99 years (mean, 43 years), with 14% Hispanic, 11% Asian, 19% African American, and 56% non-Hispanic white race/ethnicity. Men had a significantly worse impact of asthma on QoL than women. The impact of asthma on QoL was greatest in African American and Hispanic subjects compared with that seen in non-Hispanic white subjects. Our measures correlated highly with the AQLQ-M and more strongly with the PROMIS global physical than mental scales. They differentiated between adults with asthma according to their perceived severity, level of control, presence or absence of exacerbations, and physical comorbidity. CONCLUSION The RAND-IAQL item bank, measuring the impact of asthma on QoL, will complement other patient-reported outcomes, such as measures of asthma symptoms, functioning, and control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eric Kleerup
- David Geffen School of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Calif
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Apfelbacher C, Paudyal P, Bülbül A, Smith H. Measurement properties of asthma-specific quality-of-life measures: protocol for a systematic review. Syst Rev 2014; 3:83. [PMID: 25060719 PMCID: PMC4124509 DOI: 10.1186/2046-4053-3-83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a frequent chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, and the assessment of health-related quality of life (HrQoL) is important in both research and routine care. Various asthma-specific measures of HrQoL exist but there is uncertainty which measures are best suited for use in research and routine care. Therefore, the aim of the proposed research is a comprehensive systematic assessment of the measurement properties of the existing measures that were developed to measure asthma-specific quality of life. METHODS/DESIGN This study is a systematic review of the measurement properties of asthma-specific measures of health-related quality of life. PubMed and Embase will be searched using a selection of relevant search terms. Eligible studies will be primary empirical studies evaluating, describing or comparing measurement properties of asthma-specific HRQL tools. Eligibility assessment and data abstraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. Evidence tables will be generated for study characteristics, instrument characteristics, measurement properties and interpretability. The quality of the measurement properties will be assessed using predefined criteria. Methodological quality of studies will be assessed using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. A best evidence synthesis will be undertaken if more than one study have investigated a particular measurement property. DISCUSSION The proposed systematic review will produce a comprehensive assessment of measurement properties of existing measures of asthma-specific health-related quality of life. We also aim to derive recommendations in order to help researchers and practitioners alike in the choice of instrument. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number: CRD42014010491.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Apfelbacher
- Medical Sociology, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, Regensburg 93051, Germany.
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Edelen MO, Stucky BD, Sherbourne C, Eberhart N, Lara M. Correspondence between the RAND-Negative Impact of Asthma on Quality of Life item bank and the Marks Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire. Clin Ther 2014; 36:680-8. [PMID: 24813430 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2014.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many research and clinical settings in which patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures are used, it is often desirable to link scores across disparate measures or to use scores from 1 measure to describe scores on a separate measure. However, PRO measures are scored by using a variety of metrics, making such comparisons difficult. OBJECTIVE The objective of this article was to provide an example of how to transform scores across disparate measures (the Marks Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire [AQLQ-Marks] and the newly developed RAND-Negative Impact of Asthma on Quality of Life item bank [RAND-IAQL-Bank]) by using an item response theory (IRT)-based linking method. METHODS Our sample of adults with asthma (N = 2032) completed 2 measures of asthma-specific quality of life: the AQLQ-Marks and the RAND-IAQL-Bank. We use IRT-based co-calibration of the 2 measures to provide a linkage, or a common metric, between the 2 measures. Co-calibration refers to the process of using IRT to estimate item parameters that describe the responses to the scales' items according to a common metric; in this case, a normal distribution transformed to a T scale with a mean of 50 and an SD of 10. RESULTS Respondents had an average age of 43 (15), were 60% female, and predominantly non-Hispanic White (56%), with 19% African American, 14% Hispanic, and 11% Asian. Most had at least some college education (83%), and 90% had experienced an asthma attack during the last 12 months. Our results indicate that the AQLQ-Marks and RAND-IAQL-Bank scales measured highly similar constructs and were sufficiently unidimensional for IRT co-calibration. Once linked, scores from the 2 measures were invariant across subgroups. A crosswalk is provided that allows researchers and clinicians using AQLQ-Marks to crosswalk to the RAND-IAQL toolkit. CONCLUSIONS The ability to translate scores from the RAND-IAQL toolkit to other "legacy" (ie, commonly used) measures increases the value of the new toolkit, aids in interpretation, and will hopefully facilitate adoption by asthma researchers and clinicians. More generally, the techniques we illustrate can be applied to other newly developed or existing measures in the PRO research field to obtain crosswalks with widely used traditional legacy instruments.
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Eberhart NK, Sherbourne CD, Edelen MO, Stucky BD, Sin NL, Lara M. Development of a measure of asthma-specific quality of life among adults. Qual Life Res 2013; 23:837-48. [PMID: 24062237 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-013-0510-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A key goal in asthma treatment is improvement in quality of life (QoL), but existing measures often confound QoL with symptoms and functional impairment. The current study addresses these limitations and the need for valid patient-reported outcome measures by using state-of-the-art methods to develop an item bank assessing QoL in adults with asthma. This article describes the process for developing an initial item pool for field testing. METHODS Five focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 50 asthmatic adults. We used "pile sorting/binning" and "winnowing" methods to identify key QoL dimensions and develop a pool of items based on statements made in the focus group interviews. We then conducted a literature review and consulted with an expert panel to ensure that no key concepts were omitted. Finally, we conducted individual cognitive interviews to ensure that items were well understood and inform final item refinement. RESULTS Six hundred and sixty-one QoL statements were identified from focus group interview transcripts and subsequently used to generate a pool of 112 items in 16 different content areas. CONCLUSIONS Items covering a broad range of content were developed that can serve as a valid gauge of individuals' perceptions of the effects of asthma and its treatment on their lives. These items do not directly measure symptoms or functional impairment, yet they include a broader range of content than most existent measures of asthma-specific QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole K Eberhart
- The RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, PO Box 2138, Santa Monica, CA, 90407-2138, USA,
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Wilson SR, Rand CS, Cabana MD, Foggs MB, Halterman JS, Olson L, Vollmer WM, Wright RJ, Taggart V. Asthma outcomes: quality of life. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2012; 129:S88-123. [PMID: 22386511 PMCID: PMC4269375 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2011.12.988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2011] [Accepted: 12/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND "Asthma-related quality of life" (QOL) refers to the perceived impact that asthma has on the patient's QOL. OBJECTIVE National Institutes of Health institutes and other federal agencies convened an expert group to recommend standardized measures of the impact of asthma on QOL for use in future asthma clinical research. METHODS We reviewed published documentation regarding the development and psychometric evaluation; clinical research use since 2000; and extent to which the content of each existing QOL instrument provides a unique, reliable, and valid assessment of the intended construct. We classified instruments as core (required in future studies), supplemental (used according to the study's aims and standardized), or emerging (requiring validation and standardization). This work was discussed at an National Institutes of Health-organized workshop convened in March 2010 and finalized in September 2011. RESULTS Eleven instruments for adults and 6 for children were identified for review. None qualified as core instruments because they predominantly measured indicators of asthma control (symptoms and/or functional status); failed to provide a distinct, reliable score measuring all key dimensions of the intended construct; and/or lacked adequate psychometric data. CONCLUSIONS In the absence of existing instruments that meet the stated criteria, currently available instruments are classified as either supplemental or emerging. Research is strongly recommended to develop and evaluate instruments that provide a distinct, reliable measure of the patient's perception of the impact of asthma on all of the key dimensions of QOL, an important outcome that is not captured in other outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra R Wilson
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Hanania NA, King MJ, Braman SS, Saltoun C, Wise RA, Enright P, Falsey AR, Mathur SK, Ramsdell JW, Rogers L, Stempel DA, Lima JJ, Fish JE, Wilson SR, Boyd C, Patel KV, Irvin CG, Yawn BP, Halm EA, Wasserman SI, Sands MF, Ershler WB, Ledford DK. Asthma in the elderly: Current understanding and future research needs--a report of a National Institute on Aging (NIA) workshop. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 128:S4-24. [PMID: 21872730 PMCID: PMC3164961 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2011.06.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Revised: 06/24/2011] [Accepted: 06/27/2011] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Asthma in the elderly is underdiagnosed and undertreated, and there is a paucity of knowledge on the subject. The National Institute on Aging convened this workshop to identify what is known and what gaps in knowledge remain and suggest research directions needed to improve the understanding and care of asthma in the elderly. Asthma presenting at an advanced age often has similar clinical and physiologic consequences as seen with younger patients, but comorbid illnesses and the psychosocial effects of aging might affect the diagnosis, clinical presentation, and care of asthma in this population. At least 2 phenotypes exist among elderly patients with asthma; those with longstanding asthma have more severe airflow limitation and less complete reversibility than those with late-onset asthma. Many challenges exist in the recognition and treatment of asthma in the elderly. Furthermore, the pathophysiologic mechanisms of asthma in the elderly are likely to be different from those seen in young asthmatic patients, and these differences might influence the clinical course and outcomes of asthma in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola A Hanania
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Asthma Clinical Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Tex., USA
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Further validation and definition of the psychometric properties of the Asthma Impact Survey. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 128:44-49.e1. [PMID: 21320719 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2010.12.1112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2010] [Revised: 12/07/2010] [Accepted: 12/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Asthma Impact Survey (AIS-6) is a brief disease-specific quality-of-life instrument with limited published validation data. OBJECTIVE To obtain additional validation data and psychometric properties of the AIS-6. METHODS In November, 2007, patients with persistent asthma were mailed a survey that included the AIS-6, the mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (mAQLQ), and the Asthma Control Test (ACT). Follow-up surveys were sent in April, July, and October 2008. Year 2008 exacerbations and short-acting β-agonist (SABA) dispensings were captured from administrative data. RESULTS A total of 2680 patients had complete baseline survey data. Criterion validity was demonstrated by the strong correlations of the AIS-6 with the mAQLQ (r = -0.84 to -0.86); construct validity by significant relationships (P < .0001) of the AIS-6 with mAQLQ domain scores, ACT score, and history of exacerbations; and predictive validity by significant relationships (P < .0001) between AIS-6 scores at the end of 2007 and year 2008 exacerbations and high SABA dispensings. Responsiveness was demonstrated by significant (P < .0001) correlations (r = -0.39 to -0.58) between changes in AIS-6 scores and changes in mAQLQ and ACT scores over time. A preliminary minimally important difference (MID) in AIS-6 was estimated to be 4 by using the mAQLQ MID as an anchor. Excellent internal consistency (α = 0.94) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.86-0.91) were also demonstrated. CONCLUSION The AIS-6 demonstrated good psychometric properties in a large independent sample and could be used to assess asthma-specific quality of life in clinical practice and clinical research.
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Cardarelli WJ. Asthma: are we monitoring the correct measures? Popul Health Manag 2010; 12:87-94. [PMID: 19320609 DOI: 10.1089/pop.2008.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of asthma, a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, has risen sharply over the past 25-30 years, with the biggest increase found in children. Currently, more than 22 million Americans have asthma. Asthma also is associated with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Each year, asthma is responsible for $16 billion in direct and indirect costs due to health care utilization and loss of productivity, with over 14 million missed workdays. Asthma also accounts for almost 1.8 million emergency room visits and almost 500,000 hospitalizations annually. Therefore, assessment and monitoring of disease activity is critical to improve clinical and economic outcomes for patients with asthma. To help in this endeavor, practitioners and payers rely on evidence-based guidelines to classify disease severity, to guide treatment decisions, and to assess the degree of asthma control. In August 2007, the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) updated its guidelines based on greater knowledge of disease pathophysiology and the development of newer therapeutic agents. This includes an increased emphasis on the need to establish disease severity, including the components of impairment and risk, as well as on the level of asthma control. Despite the availability of the NAEPP and other guidelines, asthma control often remains suboptimal. While numerous clinical and patient-reported measures are available, it is clear that the optimal monitoring schema for patients with asthma remains undefined. To clearly establish whether asthma control is attained, multiple measures are required and should include clinical and patient-reported assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Cardarelli
- Atrius Health/Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, Watertown, Massachusetts 02472, USA.
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Braido F, Bousquet PJ, Brzoza Z, Canonica GW, Compalati E, Fiocchi A, Fokkens W, Gerth van Wijk R, La Grutta S, Lombardi C, Maurer M, Pinto AM, Ridolo E, Senna GE, Terreehorst I, Todo Bom A, Bousquet J, Zuberbier T, Baiardini I. Specific recommendations for PROs and HRQoL assessment in allergic rhinitis and/or asthma: a GA(2)LEN taskforce position paper. Allergy 2010; 65:959-68. [PMID: 20486919 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2010.02383.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The GA(2)LEN taskforce on Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) published in 2009 a position paper concerning PROS and HRQoL assessment in clinical trials on allergy. Because of the specificity of this topic in asthma and rhinitis, specific recommendations are needed. The aim of this position paper is to define PROs and their meaning in asthma and rhinitis research, explore the available tools to provide criteria for a proper choice, identify patient-related factor which could influence PROs assessment, define specific recommendations for assessment, analysis and results spreading, underline the unexplored areas and unmet needs. PROs assessment is gaining increasing importance, and it must be performed with a rigorous methodological procedure and using validated tools. This approach enables to better understand patient-related factors influencing clinical trials and real-life management outcomes, identify patients subgroups that can benefit from specific treatment and management plan and tailor treatment to address PROs (not only physician-defined targets) to improve asthma and rhinitis management.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Braido
- Allergy & Respiratory Disease Clinic, Ospedale S.Martino Genova, Genova, Italy.
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Price D, Robertson A, Bullen K, Rand C, Horne R, Staudinger H. Improved adherence with once-daily versus twice-daily dosing of mometasone furoate administered via a dry powder inhaler: a randomized open-label study. BMC Pulm Med 2010; 10:1. [PMID: 20051135 PMCID: PMC2822814 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2466-10-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor adherence with prescribed asthma medication is a major barrier to positive treatment outcomes. This study was designed to determine the effect of a once-daily administration of mometasone furoate administered via a dry powder inhaler (MF-DPI) on treatment adherence compared with a twice-daily administration. Methods This was a 12-week open-label study designed to mimic an actual clinical setting in patients ≥12 years old with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. Patients were randomized to receive MF-DPI 400 μg once-daily in the evening or MF-DPI 200 μg twice-daily. Adherence was assessed primarily using the number of actual administered doses reported from the device counter divided by the number of scheduled doses. Self-reports were also used to determine adherence. Health-related quality of life, healthcare resource utilization, and days missed from work or school were also reported. Results 1233 patients were randomized. The mean adherence rates, as measured by the automatic dose counter, were significantly better (P < 0.001) with MF-DPI 400 μg once-daily in the evening (93.3%) than with MF-DPI 200 μg twice-daily (89.5%). Mean adherence rates based on self-reports were also significantly better (P < 0.001) with MF-DPI 400 μg QD PM (97.2%) than with MF-DPI 200 μg twice-daily (95.3%). Adherence rates were lower in adolescents (12-17 years old). Health-related quality of life improved by 20% in patients using MF-DPI once-daily in the evening and by 14% in patients using MF-DPI twice-daily. Very few (<8%) patients missed work/school. Conclusion Mean adherence rates were greater with a once-daily dosing regimen of MF-DPI than with a twice-daily dosing regimen. This trial was completed prior to the ISMJE requirements for trial registration.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Price
- Centre of Academic Primary Care, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill Health Centre, Aberdeen, UK.
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Zivković Z, Radić S, Cerović S, Vukasinović Z. Asthma School Program in children and their parents. World J Pediatr 2008; 4:267-73. [PMID: 19104890 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-008-0049-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Accepted: 08/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was undertaken to analyze the clinical efficiency of Asthma Education Intervention (AEI, Asthma School) in children and their parents, a program was designed to produce acceptable asthma knowledge and to improve the treatment. METHODS This study assessed the effectiveness of an educational intervention within 12 months after attending Asthma School. The study was designed as a population based cohort study. The project endorsed by the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Educational Grant was launched in 2004 and finished in 2006, but the Asthma School continued working. Three hundred and two asthmatics recruited during hospital treatment of acute asthma exacerbation completed the study together with their parents. The intervention group of 231 asthmatics received full Asthma School program. The non-intervention group enrolled 71 asthmatics receiving usual instructions for asthma management. Clinical and educational outcomes were investigated immediately after completion of the program and 12 months later. RESULTS Significant achievements were found in the intervention group in asthma knowledge (baseline score 63%, 82% after 12 months, P<0.05), compliance (70% before, 90% after), and inhalation technique (20% before, 70% after). No change was found in the attitude and behavior regarding asthma prognosis in adolescent patients and parents. CONCLUSION This study together with others clearly confirm the effectiveness of educational intervention for childhood asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zorica Zivković
- Children's Hospital for Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis, Medical Center Dr Dragisa Misović, Belgrade, Serbia,
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16
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Schatz M, Mosen DM, Kosinski M, Vollmer WM, Magid DJ, O'Connor E, Zeiger RS. The relationship between asthma-specific quality of life and asthma control. J Asthma 2007; 44:391-5. [PMID: 17613636 DOI: 10.1080/02770900701364296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have quantitatively addressed the relationship between asthma-specific quality of life and asthma control as assessed by validated tools. Questionnaires were completed at home by a random sample of 542 adult asthmatic patients. The correlations of the two asthma control tools (Asthma Control Test and Asthma Therapy Assessment Questionnaire) with the quality of life tool (mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire) were strongest with the symptoms and activity domains (r = 0.63-0.77); lower with the emotions domain (r = 0.57-0.64); and lowest with the environment domain (r = 0.38-0.43). Asthma control tools reflect the symptoms and activity themes of asthma quality of life well, but reflect the environmental domain less well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schatz
- Department of Allergy, Kaiser Permanente, San Diego, CA 92111, USA.
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Baiardini I, Braido F, Brandi S, Canonica GW. Allergic diseases and their impact on quality of life. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2006; 97:419-28; quiz 429-30, 476. [PMID: 17069092 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)60928-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the results of studies that have evaluated the impact of allergic diseases on patients' health-related quality of life (HRQL). DATA SOURCES We performed a MEDLINE search of the literature published between January 1990 and May 2006 (English language only) on HRQL and allergic diseases. STUDY SELECTION Representative studies that used validated questionnaires that assessed the effect of allergic diseases on HRQL were selected for inclusion in this review. RESULTS Allergic diseases can deeply interfere with patients' HRQL, with detrimental effects on the physical, psychological, and social dimensions of life. Numerous validated questionnaires that are now available can easily be adopted; most of them are specifically developed for rhinitis and asthma. CONCLUSIONS HRQL has become an increasingly important aspect in outcome evaluation in health care research, providing a more comprehensive approach to the patient and proving that nowadays we cannot renounce this tool. Most of the studies evaluate patients with respiratory allergy. Further studies are needed to explore HRQL in other allergic conditions (urticaria, food allergy, sting allergy, drug allergy) by means of specific, validated questionnaires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Baiardini
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, DIMI, Genoa University, Genoa, Italy
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18
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Revicki D, Weiss KB. Clinical assessment of asthma symptom control: review of current assessment instruments. J Asthma 2006; 43:481-7. [PMID: 16939986 DOI: 10.1080/02770900600619618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Health care providers are increasingly shifting asthma management from treating acute attacks to achieving symptom control to return patients to full functioning and improve their quality of life. Assessment instruments have been developed that quantify asthma patients' symptom control and quality of life. Several instruments are described in this review in terms of domains, psychometric qualities, ease of use, and ability to accurately reflect patients' overall condition. Problems with applicability and feasibility have limited the use of currently available instruments mainly to research settings or sporadic use in selected practices, generally leaving clinicians without the potential benefits of such tools to aid their routine clinical management of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Revicki
- Center for Health Outcomes Research, MEDTAP Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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19
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Schatz M, Mosen D, Kosinski M, Vollmer WM, O'Connor E, Cook EF, Zeiger RS. Validation of the asthma impact survey, a brief asthma-specific quality of life tool. Qual Life Res 2006; 16:345-55. [PMID: 17033905 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-006-9103-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Asthma Impact Survey (AIS-6) is a new six question asthma outcome tool for which information on validity has not been published. OBJECTIVE To provide validation for the AIS-6 as a brief asthma-specific quality of life tool. METHODS Surveys were sent to a random sample of members of a large managed care organization who were at least 35 years of age and in the two-year period preceding the survey had either (1) at least one documented asthma-related medical encounter, or (2) at least a 6 months supply of asthma medication dispensed. In addition to the AIS-6, the survey included a validated quality of life tool [the mini-Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ)]; a validated asthma control questionnaire [the Asthma Therapy Assessment Questionnaire (ATAQ)]; a validated symptom severity scale (AOMS); and information regarding demographics, co-morbidities, asthma severity, and asthma management. The results of the AIS-6 were compared to the results of the other tools by means of correlation and factor analysis. Independent predictors of AIS-6 and AQLQ scores were determined by multiple stepwise linear regression analyses. RESULTS AIS-6 scores were significantly related to female sex, educational level, income, smoking, body mass index (BMI), COPD, steroid use, and hospitalization history in bivariate analyses. The AIS-6 score significantly correlated (r = - 0.84, p < 0.0001) with the AQLQ total score and loaded on the three factors (activity, symptoms, and concern/bother) reflected by the survey information and on which the AQLQ also loaded. Significant but somewhat smaller correlations were found between the AIS-6 and the ATAQ (r = 0.70, p < 0.0001) and the AOMS (r = 0.55, p < 0.0001). Independent predictors were the same for the AIS-6 and AQLQ and included oral steroid use, COPD history, BMI, female sex, educational level, and hospitalization in the past year. CONCLUSION These data support the validity of the short six-question AIS-6 as an asthma-specific quality of life tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schatz
- Department of Allergy, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, San Diego, CA 92111, USA.
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20
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine how effective a number of asthma disease management (DM) programs have been and whether they have been shown to improve patient outcomes cost-effectively. DATA SOURCES Articles and meta-analyses from peer-reviewed journals or conference abstracts from 1991 to November 2003 were reviewed by searching MEDLINE and the external World Wide Web to provide examples of data. Terms used for searches included outcomes, intervention, specialist, self-management, asthma, pediatric, and cost-effectiveness. STUDY SELECTION Observational studies that reported data on DM programs, comparisons of general and specialty care, or asthma self-management outcomes were selected for review. RESULTS Recently, several studies have demonstrated the short-term benefit of asthma DM programs. These studies found that educational intervention programs produce measurable clinical and economic benefits in the intervention group; however, only a small percentage of patients remain compliant. In addition, the benefit of specialty care in asthma has been shown in other studies. CONCLUSIONS Although long-term studies are needed to evaluate DM-mediated clinical and cost benefits compared with specialty care, any program that helps improve patient compliance will result in clinical and economic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Blaiss
- College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
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Baiardini I, Braido F, Fassio O, Tarantini F, Pasquali M, Tarchino F, Berlendis A, Canonica GW. A new tool to assess and monitor the burden of chronic cough on quality of life: Chronic Cough Impact Questionnaire. Allergy 2005; 60:482-8. [PMID: 15727580 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2005.00743.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic cough, one of the most frequent causes for a patient to consult a medical practitioner, limits the course of normal activities in everyday life of the patient affected (work, physical activities, social relations, night sleep). By now, there are few validated questionnaires for the evaluation of the impact of this symptom in the patient's quality of life (QoL). For this reason, we created a new questionnaire for the assessment of QoL in patients affected by chronic cough (Chronic Cough Impact Questionnaire, CCIQ). MATERIALS AND METHODS In the development procedure of CCIQ an initial questionnaire of 40 items was compiled and given to a first pool of 170 patients, each coming to our attention because of chronic cough; then the 25 most significant items were detected and converted into questions evaluating the answers on a Likert scale of five steps. Consequently, this final questionnaire underwent a validation procedure to assess its construct validity, internal consistency, reliability, and responsiveness. 95 patients (44.2% F, 55.8% M) were evaluated (age 53.69 +/- 11.7 years). RESULTS Following a statistical analysis, CCIQ showed a four-dimensional structure and good levels of internal consistency for the extracted factors: sleep/concentration (79.98), relationship (86.98), daily life impact (69.04), and mood (65.41). In stable conditions CCIQ showed a good reliability, ranged between 0.67 and 0.88. Responsiveness to clinical changes was accomplished. DISCUSSION These results provide evidence that CCIQ has specificity enough for being a valid tool for detecting the relative burden of cough on subjective well-being, and for obtaining a global evaluation both of chronic cough impact and of treatments for it, taking into account the patient's point of view. The CCIQ was easily and quickly filled in by the patients while waiting, and it was accepted by the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Baiardini
- Allergy and Respiratory Diseases, DIMI, Genoa University, Genoa, Italy
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22
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Jacobs JE, Maillé AR, Akkermans RP, van Weel C, Grol RPTM. Assessing the quality of life of adults with chronic respiratory diseases in routine primary care: construction and first validation of the 10-Item Respiratory Illness Questionnaire-monitoring 10 (RIQ-MON10). Qual Life Res 2004; 13:1117-27. [PMID: 15287278 DOI: 10.1023/b:qure.0000031338.88928.e9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As doctors' judgements about the burden of a disease often differ from patients' own assessments a manageable method to incorporate the latter into routine care might support patient-centered decision-making. For this purpose we shortened the 55-Item Quality of Life for Respiratory Illness Questionnaire (QoL-RIQ). METHODS Secondary analyses of the data of 3 controlled studies (n = 328, 502 and 555). PROCEDURES inter-item correlations, scale distributions, Cronbach's alpha and factor analysis. Dyspnoea, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), COOP/WONCA charts, the Medical Research Council-ECCS symptoms questionnaire and the MOS-SF 36 served as criteria to test validity and responsiveness. RESULTS Item-reduction resulted in a 10-item short form (alpha's 0.87-0.90), consisting of 2 5-item factors: (1) physical and emotional complaints and (2) physical and social limitations. The correlations of the short form with dyspnoea (r from 0.57 to 0.60), the generic health status instruments (r from 0.39 to 0.59) and lung function (r from 0.10 to 0.15) fulfilled the criteria. FURTHER RESULTS: a clinical relevant score difference (> 0.5) between upper and lower quartiles of the convergent instruments, an intraclass correlation between repeated scores in a stable group of 0.82 and a standardised response mean of 0.86 in an improved group of patients. CONCLUSIONS The short form (RIQ-MON10) maintained the psychometric properties of the original instrument and is promising for assessing quality of life (QoL) during routine primary care visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- J E Jacobs
- Centre for Quality of Care Research, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gerth van Wijk
- Department Allergology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Kanter LJ, Siegel CJ, Snyder CF, Pelletier EM, Buchner DA, Goss TF. Impact of respiratory symptoms on health-related quality of life and medical resource utilization of patients treated by allergy specialists and primary care providers. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2002; 89:139-47. [PMID: 12197569 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61929-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory symptoms associated with allergy and asthma cause substantial health care burden. OBJECTIVE This observational pilot study compared internal medicine/family practice (IM/FP) and pediatric primary care providers with allergists in the diagnosis, treatment, and health-related quality of life (HRQL) outcomes of adults and children with respiratory symptoms. METHODS Two allergists, 2 IM/FP, and 2 pediatricians enrolled 242 patients with respiratory symptoms ages 5 to 16 years old (n = 123) and 17 to 70 years old (n = 119). HRQL questionnaires were completed at enrollment and quarterly for 1 year. The adult questionnaire included SF-36, respiratory symptom role productivity, ITG Asthma Short Form, and allergy symptom index (ASI) scales. The child questionnaire included CHQ-PF28, respiratory symptom family impact, ITG Child Asthma Short Form, and ASI scales. HRQL changes were evaluated over the study period. RESULTS Adults treated by allergists reported significantly greater improvement in HRQL on 5 of 8 SF-36 scales, the respiratory symptom role productivity scale, 3 of 5 ITG Asthma Short Form scales, and 2 of 4 ASI scales compared with adults treated by an IM/FP (P < 0.05). Pediatric patients treated by allergists had significantly greater improvement on 3 of 15 CHQ-PF28 scales, the respiratory symptom family impact scale, and one ASI scale compared with patients treated by pediatricians (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Compared with patients treated by primary care physicians, patients treated by allergists reported greater improvement in HRQL in a number of scales. Additional research is required to further evaluate the impact of provider specialty and patterns of care on outcomes of respiratory symptoms patients.
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Eisner MD, Ackerson LM, Chi F, Kalkbrenner A, Buchner D, Mendoza G, Lieu T. Health-related quality of life and future health care utilization for asthma. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2002; 89:46-55. [PMID: 12141720 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61910-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although health-related quality of life (HRQL) has been increasingly used as an outcome in asthma, its utility for identifying patients at risk for adverse asthma outcomes has not been established. OBJECTIVE In a prospective cohort study, to evaluate the longitudinal impact of HRQL on future health care utilization and cost among adults with asthma, accounting for known risk factors for utilization. METHODS A stratified random sample of 3,482 adult Northern CA Kaiser Permanente members with asthma was selected using computerized utilization databases and a screening survey item. Subjects completed a mail survey that included measures of generic (SF-12) and asthma-specific HRQL (ITG-Asthma Short Form battery). During the 12 months after survey completion, computerized utilization and cost data were ascertained. RESULTS Better baseline asthma-specific HRQL was associated with a decreased risk of asthma-related emergency department visit or hospitalization during longitudinal followup (odds ratio per 10-point score increment 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74 to 0.95), controlling for demographic and clinical factors. Better baseline generic physical HRQL was associated with a decreased risk of future all-cause hospitalization (odds ratio 0.68; 95% CI 0.60 to 0.77). More favorable asthma-specific HRQL scores were also related to decreased asthma-related health care costs during the ensuing year (-0.086 log-dollars per 10-point score increment; 95% CI -0.11 to -0.06). Better generic physical HRQL scores were associated with lower total costs (-0.24 log-dollars; 95% CI -0.32 to -0.17). CONCLUSIONS In a large cohort of adult health maintenance organization members with asthma, asthma-specific HRQL was associated with future asthma-related utilization and cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark D Eisner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco 94117, USA.
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