Responses (1=Not at all, 2=A little, 3=Quite a bit, 4=Very much) are entered into a scoring algorithm and transformed to 0–100 scales which depend on the respective PROM. Scoring for the EORTC QLQ-C30 is described in the Scoring Manual.
Interpretation depends on the scale type (example: EORTC QLQ-C30):
Functional scales
Symptom scales
Higher scores indicate better functioning/quality of life. Lower scores indicate low functioning or impairment.
Higher scores indicate higher symptom burden. Lower scores indicate milder or no symptom burden.
1. Do you have any trouble doing strenuous activities, like carrying a heavy shopping bag or a suitcase?
2. Do you have any trouble taking a long walk?
3. Do you have any trouble taking a short walk outside of the house?
4. Do you need to stay in bed or a chair during the day?
5. Do you need help with eating, dressing, washing yourself or using the toilet?
6. Were you limited in doing either your work or other daily activities?
7. Were you limited in pursuing your hobbies or other leisure time activities?
21. Did you feel tense?
22. Did you worry?
23. Did you feel irritable?
24. Did you feel depressed?
20. Have you had difficulty in concentrating on things, like reading a newspaper or watching television?
25. Have you had difficulty remembering things?
26. Has your physical condition or medical treatment interfered with your family life?
27. Has your physical condition or medical treatmentinterfered with your social activities?
29. How would you rate your overall health during the past week?
30. How would you rate your overall quality of life during the past week?
10. Did you need to rest?
12. Have you felt weak?
18. Were you tired?
14. Have you felt nauseated?
15. Have you vomited?
9. Have you had pain?
19. Did pain interfere with your daily activities?
8. Were you short of breath?
11. Have you had trouble sleeping?
13. Have you lacked appetite?
16. Have you been constipated?
17. Have you had diarrhea?
28. Has your physical condition or medical treatment caused you financial difficulties?
For further information regarding the interpretation of PROMs please refer to chapter 7.