Psychometric Validation of the Chinese Version of Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality-of-Life Questionnaire Among Chinese Patients

Background The Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (AFEQT) is a psychometrically sound instrument for measuring disease-specific health-related quality of life in atrial fibrillation populations. Objective In this study we aimed to validate the Chinese version of AFEQT (AFEQT-C) among Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation. Methods The AFEQT was translated into Chinese according to Brislin's model. The psychometric properties of internal consistency, stability, and concurrent and factorial validity were examined in a convenience sample. Results A total of 200 participants (mean age, 69.8 +/- 5.2 years) were recruited. The Cronbach's alpha of the AFEQT-C was 0.94, and item-to-total correlations ranged from 0.44 to 0.80. The test-retest reliability was supported by good to excellent intraclass correlation coefficients, which ranged from 0.68 to 0.92. The AFEQT-C scores significantly correlated with the EuroQoL 5-Dimensional Questionnaire score to support concurrent validity. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated a 3-factor structure and all items loaded strongly onto their respective factors. Conclusions The AFEQT-C is a reliable and valid measure of health-related quality of life in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation.

Automated summary

The study validated the Chinese version of the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (AFEQT-C) among Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation, demonstrating good reliability and validity. The psychometric properties of the AFEQT-C were examined and showed strong internal consistency, stability, and concurrent and factorial validity in measuring disease-specific health-related quality of life in this population.