Assessment of health-related quality of life in individuals with depressive symptoms: validity and responsiveness of the EQ-5D-3L and the SF-6D

AbstractBackgroundThe EQ-5D and the SF-6D are examples of commonly used generic preference-based instruments for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, their suitability for mental disorders has been repeatedly questioned.ObjectiveTo assess the responsiveness and convergent validity of the EQ-5D-3L and SF-6D in patients with depressive symptoms.MethodsThe data analyzed were from cardiac patients with depressive symptoms and were collected as part of the SPIRR-CAD (Stepwise Psychotherapy Intervention for Reducing Risk in Coronary Artery Disease) trial. The EQ-5D-3L and SF-6D were compared with the HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire) as disease-specific instruments. Convergent validity was assessed using Spearman's rank correlation. Effect sizes were calculated and ROC analysis was performed to determine responsiveness.ResultsData from 566 patients were analysed. The SF-6D correlated considerably better with the disease-specific instruments (