Korean translation and validation of the WHOQOL-DIS for people with spinal cord injury and stroke

Abstract Background The QOL assessment to measure disabilities has needed to survey studies for a variety of fields. Until now, no Korean translation of the World Health Organization Quality of Life-disability (WHOQOL-DIS) module existed. Objective/Hypothesis We translated and cross-culturally adapted the WHOQOL-DIS module into Korean, testing its reliability and validity with Korean spinal cord injury and stroke patients. Methods The translation occurred using the methodology recommended by WHO. Ten participants were cognitively debriefed and the psychometric properties of the Korean WHOQOL-DIS module were evaluated for reliability and validity with 85 patients (SCI = 58, stroke = 27). Concurrent validity was assessed for the WHOQOL-BREF scores. Internal consistency coefficients were analyzed using Cronbach's alpha. Test-retest reliability (n = 30) was measured using a 7–10-day interval and analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficients. Validity was evaluated using EFA and CFA. Results There was high internal consistency with the WHOQOL-BREF, (α = 0.603–0.875). Pearson's correlation was significant in the DIS module's three sub-domains (r = 0.759). EFA revealed slightly different models from the original version and there was an internal consistency difference between test and retest. The three-domain structure model with a higher-order factor fit well with the WHOQOL-DIS module's development. Conclusions This instrument can help evaluate the quality of life of Koreans with disabilities. Further studies with other disabilities are required for additional evidence of validity and reliability.