Validation and responsiveness of the English version of the Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia Distress Scale (CADS) in breast cancer patients

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed to validate the Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia Distress Scale (CADS) in a diverse English-speaking population and patients with endocrine treatment-induced alopecia (EIA). Objective Chemotherapy and endocrine therapy commonly cause alopecia in breast cancer patients, leading to significant psychological and social challenges. The CADS was developed to assess the psychosocial impact of alopecia, but its generalizability beyond Korean patients requires further investigation. Methods Data from the CHANCE study (NCT02530177), which focused on non-metastatic breast cancer, was used. The cohort included 256 patients, and CADS data were collected at baseline, 6 months after chemotherapy completion, or 12 months after initiating endocrine therapy. The CADS questionnaire comprised 17 items covering physical and emotional health, daily activities, and relationships. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, and responsiveness was measured by effect size. Results The CADS exhibited good reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.91 for the overall score, indicating acceptable internal consistency in both chemotherapy (0.89) and endocrine therapy (0.86) groups. Longitudinal responsiveness was supported by an effect size of 0.49 between decreasing satisfaction with hair growth and increasing emotional distress. Cross-sectional validity was confirmed, with effect sizes of 0.91 and 0.92 for satisfaction with hair growth and emotional and activity domains, respectively. Conclusion The CADS is a valid and responsive tool for assessing the psychosocial impact of chemotherapy-induced alopecia and endocrine treatment-induced alopecia in a diverse Western patient population.