Validation of the Arabic Version of Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-29 (MSCOL-29-Ar): Cross-cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Analysis

Abstract

Background and objectives

To translate and adapt the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-29 into Arabic (MSQOL-29-Ar) and assess its psychometric properties in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

Generally, 101 Arabic-speaking adults with MS aged 21 to 60 were recruited. Construct validity was tested by correlating MSQOL-29-Ar with the Arabic Functional Assessment of Multiple Sclerosis (FAMS-AR) and Multiple Sclerosis International Quality of Life (MusiQOL). Known-group validity was assessed by correlating the scale's Physical Health Composite (PHC) and Mental Health Composite (MHC) scores with the demographic and clinical data. Test-retest reliability, internal consistency, standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC₉₅), limit of agreement (LOA), responsiveness, and floor/ceiling effects were also investigated.

Results

PHC and MHC scores correlated strongly with FAMS-ARA (r = 0.76 and 0.70, respectively).PHC scores were associated with age, employment, and MS chronicity, while MHC scores correlated with the Expanded Disability Status Scale. Internal consistency was acceptable (PHC α = 0.80; MHC α = 0.90), with excellent test-retest reliability (PHC r = 0.76; MHC r = 0.90). SEM (1.4–1.6) and MDC₉₅ (4.3–3) were low. Responsiveness analysis indicated moderate accuracy (AUC = 0.70–0.75) with on-floor/ceiling effects.

Conclusion

MSQOL-29-Ar is valid and reliable for assessing HQOL in people with MS, making it suitable for clinical and rehabilitation settings.