Ferrans and Powers' Quality of Life Index Applied in Urinary Incontinence Research--a Pilot Study

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the usefulness of applying a global, evaluation-based quality of life (QoL) questionnaire in assessing the impact of urinary incontinence (UI) on women's lives.

Methods: The study population comprised long-term gynaecological cancer survivors (n=160) and controls from the general population (n=493). The presence of UI was assessed by the question 'Do you leak urine?' while UI perceived as a problem was assessed on a five-point scale from 'No problem' to 'A very large problem'. QoL was measured by Ferrans & Powers' QoL index (QLI), generic version II.

Results: UI was distributed equally among women with a history of gynaecological cancer and among women from the general population (34%). UI has a negative impact on overall QLI as well as a wide range of items. Approximately 20% of the incontinent women defined UI as no problem, with QLI scores similar to continent women. Only 5% experienced UI as a large/very large problem; with exceptionally low QLI scores. The psychometric testing of QLI (acceptability, internal consistency reliability and known-group validity) supports the use of QLI in UI-studies.

Conclusions: The Ferrans & Powers' QLI is considered an acceptable tool for UI research, but further psychometric testing is required.