RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is an important outcome in oncology, particularly in the palliative care setting. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C15-PAL questionnaire is a brief version of QLQ-C30. Our aim is to validate the Mexican-Spanish version of the QLQ-C15-PAL questionnaire to measure HRQL in patients with terminal cancer. METHODS: Consecutive patients with biopsy proven cancer were included in the study. All were treated in a cancer center in Mexico and were referred for palliative care because of far-advanced, recurrent or metastatic cancer. QLQ-C15-PAL questionnaire was applied in the first visit to the Unit and palliative care was offered to all patients depending on their specific necessities. RESULTS: Eighty-three patients were enrolled in this study (mean age, 61.2 years). Compliance rates were high; all patients completed to the questionnaire in <20 min and the instrument was well-received. Five missing values in five different items were found. QLQ-C15 scales distinguished between other clinically distinct groups of patients. Multi-trait scaling analysis demonstrated good convergent and discriminant validity. Cronbach's α coefficients were >0.7 in three of four multi-item scales (0.67 in the fourth). Test-retest scores were consistent in some scales, while improve or worsen in others. Better Global health, Dyspnea, Insomnia, Fatigue and Appetite scales were associated with longer survival. CONCLUSION: The Mexican-Spanish version of the EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL questionnaire is reliable and valid for HRQL measurement in patients with terminal cancer, and is appropriate for use in clinical trials of Mexican patients.