Published in:
01-12-2018
Initial validation of the Danish version of the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI) in colorectal cancer patients
Published in: Journal of Cancer Survivorship | Issue 6/2018
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Purpose
The Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI) is a multidimensional measure for fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the translated Danish version of the FCRI in a population of colorectal cancer patients.
Methods
The English version of the FCRI was forward–backward translated into Danish and pilot tested in a gynaecological cancer population. The psychometric properties of the FCRI were assessed in terms of responsiveness, test–retest reliability and discriminative and convergent validity in a population of colorectal cancer patients by asking them to complete questionnaires at three time points during follow-up. Clinical FCR was defined as ≥ 16 at the FCRI short form.
Results
The participation rate was 57%. A low association was found between higher scores on the FCRI and younger age (r = − 0.29, p = 0.02). A moderate correlation was found between the FCRI score and a measure for worry traits (r = 0.49, p < 0.001). Mean difference in total FCRI score was statistically significant between ‘pre-scan’ and ‘postscan’ (p < 0.001), thus indicating that the FCRI was responsive to change. The FCRI score showed good test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation = 0.84).
Conclusion
The Danish version of the FCRI is a reliable and responsive measure for FCR in colorectal cancer patients and shows acceptable discriminative and convergent validity.
Implications for Cancer Survivors
A valid measure for FCR is crucial in order to identify patients with a need for special attention or interventions for high levels of FCR and to improve future research into FCR among cancer survivors.