Current Concepts and Considerations in Measuring Dysphagia-Related Quality of Life for People with Head and Neck Disease

Abstract

Purpose of Review To provide an overview of current concepts and considerations in the measurement of dysphagia-related quality of life (QoL) for people with head and neck disease. We describe key psychometric and other tool properties that are important to consider when deciding which dysphagia QoL tool to use in practice. The review seeks to establish which tool/s best meet the required properties.

Recent Findings Currently, no single dysphagia QoL tool meets all criteria. However, a few (SWAL QoL, MDADI, SOAL) meet several parameters and we highlight the current evidence base for these assessments.

Summary QoL is essential to providing holistic clinical care and could also be an important outcome in research when evaluating interventions. Existing tools may benefit from re-validation studies which take account of progress made in the fields of instrument development, cross-cultural validity and patient centredness. It is also crucial to recognise that the value of capturing QoL in clinical practice is only realised by subsequent follow-up with the individual patient.