Validation of Novel Bladder Health Scales and Function Indices for Women's Research. Journal Article

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Authors: Constantine, ML; Rockwood, T; Rickey, L; Bavendam, T; Kane Low, L; Lowder, JL; Markland, AD; Mcgwinn, G; Mueller, ER; Newman, DK; Putnam, S; Rudser, K; Smith, A; Stapleton, A; Miller, J; Lukacz, ES
Article Title: Validation of Novel Bladder Health Scales and Function Indices for Women's Research.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: (s): Existing bladder-specific measures lack ability to assess a range of bladder health from poor to optimal health. We report evidence for validity of the self-administered, multidimensional Bladder Health Scales and Function Indices for research in adult women. STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional population-based validation study with random assignment to paper or electronic administration was conducted using national address-based probability sampling supplemented by purposive sampling of women with lower urinary tract symptoms surrounding 7 clinical research centers. Construct validity of the Bladder Health Scales and Function Indices was guided by Multitrait-Multimethod approach using health and condition-specific questionnaires, bladder diaries, expert ratings of bladder health, and noninvasive bladder function testing. Internal dimensional validity was evaluated using factor analysis; internal reliability was assessed using paired t-tests and 2-way mixed effects Intraclass Correlation Coefficient models. Mode comparisons used chi-square, Fisher Exact or t-tests. Convergent validity was evaluated using Pearson correlations with the external construct measures and known-group validity was established with comparison of women known and unknown to be symptomatic with urinary conditions. RESULTS: The sample included 1,072 participants. Factor analysis identified ten scales with Cronbach's alpha ranging 0.74-0.94. Intraclass correlation coefficients of scales ranged from 0.55-0.94. Convergent validity of ten scales and six indices ranged from 0.52- 0.83. Known-group validity was confirmed for all scales and indices. Item distribution was similar by mode of administration. CONCLUSION(S): The paper and electronic forms of the Bladder Health Scales and Function Indices are reliable and valid measures of bladder health for use in women's health research.
Journal Title: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
ISSN: 1097-6868; 0002-9378
Publisher: Unknown  
Date Published: 2022