Different methods to assess quality of life from multiple follow-ups in a longitudinal asthma study

摘要: Abstract Background and Objective Serial measurements obtained during observational longitudinal studies offer the opportunity to describe effects of chronic diseases on patient-centered outcomes such as quality life. The purpose this study was assess serial Asthma Quality Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) SF-36 scores against a transition item using three methods data analysis—final minus initial scores, maximum minimum regression line slopes through all scores. Methods Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, each method analysis compared patients’ responses global question about change in asthma status with dichotomized “stayed same or got worse” “improved.” A total 185 patients, mean age 41±11 years, 83% women, completed AQLQ seven times at approximately 8-month intervals over 24.8±3.9 months. For AQLQ, performed well ROC areas highest for symptoms, activities, summary (0.74–0.78). Results Overall, increased number observations increased, ranging from 0.78 0.93 score patients six more assessments, respectively ( P  = .02). As part cited specific activities which they were limited because asthma. 66 different cited, including limitations stair climbing, walking, interacting others, sleeping, working. In analysis, these items also 0.72 0.75 analysis. contrast, Physical Mental Component Summary significantly lower, 0.59 0.66 areas, indicating that generic scale less responsive than disease-specific P ⩽.01). provided unique information cohort. final showed 63% had clinically important improvements, 90% fluctuations important, slope 79% an overall trend improvement. Conclusions This described possible analyze present data. Additional techniques interpret are needed comprehensively long-term