Statistical Validation of the Shorter-Moldwin Food Sensitivity Questionnaire for Patients with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome

Purpose: American Urological Association guidelines suggest dietary changes as first line treatment for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. We previously developed a validated survey instrument to determine which foods, beverages and supplements exacerbate the symptoms of this condition. In this study we developed a shortened questionnaire that would provide an easily self-administered food symptom history useful for clinical practice and future research.Materials and Methods: Using data from our previously validated food sensitivity questionnaire we remodeled the original lengthy survey to an abbreviated list including the 35 most problematic comestibles. The instrument was reviewed by a panel of experts for face and content validity, and tested for internal consistency, readability and clarity, and test-retest reliability.Results: Of the 124 patients who completed a baseline questionnaire 52 (42%) returned the second instrument 1 week after completing the first instrument. Internal consistency ...