Factor Analysis of the Multi-Item Functional Subscales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and Its Relationship with Perceived Stress and Community Participation

Abstract

Purpose/Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the factor structure of the functional subscale items of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) among Turkish cancer patients and its associations with perceived stress and community participation. Research Method/Design: A total of 186 Turkish cancer patients completed a demographic information form, the EORTC-QLQ-30, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA) scale. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), t -tests, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to analyze the data. Results: The EFA results suggested a three-factor structure: mental, physical, and social and role functioning. Multitrait scaling analysis confirmed the extracted factor structure with item discrimination and convergence. All factors demonstrated good reliability. Mental, physical, and social and role functioning were significantly, but differentially, associated with perceived stress and community participation domains in the expected direction. Conclusions/Implications: The findings provide valuable insights into functioning and its related factors in a Turkish cancer population, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions, such as accommodations and counseling services, to improve the functioning levels of people with cancer in Turkey.