Quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: translation, validity, reliability and sensitivity to change of the Norwegian version of the Short Health Scale (SHS)

The aims of this study were to investigate the psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the Short Health Scale
(SHS), and to study the impact of socio-demographic and clinical data.

A total of 140 patients without severe disease activity were included. The participants completed the SHS and three other
well-validated HRQoL questionnaires Short Form 36, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire and the Rating Form of Inflammatory
Bowel Disease Patient Concerns at the baseline. Sixty-three participants completed the SHS at a second visit after 6 months
in order to calculate test–retest reliability and responsiveness. In addition, socio-demographic and clinical variables were
obtained and entered into a linear regression analysis if they were found to be significantly associated with SHS outcome.

Validity was confirmed by good correlation with other similar HRQoL constructs and the ability to discriminate between IBD
symptom scores. The reliability was strong (Cronbach’s α 0.85). The test–retest reliability in three out of four SHS items
was weak, but the questionnaire demonstrated a good responsiveness. Current IBD symptoms were the most important predictor
of SHS outcome.

The Norwegian SHS demonstrated satisfactory psychometrical properties and is suitable for use in the follow-up of IBD patients.