Evaluating the Content Validity, Clarity, and Relevance of Two Patient-Reported Outcomes for Use With Adults With EGFR-Mutated NSCLC

Abstract

Introduction: NSCLCs account for most lung cancers; approximately 30% involve a mutation in the EGFR gene. This study sought to identify one or more patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures relevant for use in clinical trials to assess symptoms and health-related quality of life in this population. Methods: Patients with NSCLC from the United States, Europe, and Asia and including those with an exon 20 insertion mutation and other EGFR mutations participated in a combination of concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing interviews to report symptoms and impacts of their NSCLC and provide feedback on the clarity and relevance of several PRO measures. Results: A total of 30 individuals participated (mean age = 57 years, 87% female, 80% white). The most often reported symptoms included fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, and weight loss. Individuals with the exon 20 insertion mutation (n = 21) more frequently reported negative impacts on daily life, physical functioning, and social functioning but less frequently reported negative impacts to emotional functioning. The PROMIS Short-Form version 2.0—Physical Function 8c and the NSCLC Symptom Assessment Questionnaire were deemed clear, relevant, and easy to complete. The concepts identified during the concept elicitation portion of the interviews were mapped to the content of each PRO, and all items within both PROs were endorsed by at least 20% of the participants. Conclusions: These results support the content validity, clarity, and relevance of the PROMIS Short-Form version 2.0—Physical Function 8c and the NSCLC Symptom Assessment Questionnaire in a population with EGFR-mutated NSCLC. Both would be appropriate for inclusion in future studies.

Keywords

• Non-small cell lung cancer
• Patient-reported outcomes
• Exon 20 insertion mutation
• Epidermal growth factor receptor