Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Assessment of the Persian Version of the Facit-Pal Quality of Life Instrument: A Study Protocol Publisher



Mohammadi AM ; Mirshahi A ; Cella P ; Mahmoodibakhtiari B ; Bakitas M ; Bagcivan G ; Sayyar A ; Bredle J ; Asgari A ; Karbasimotlagh M
Source: Health Science Reports Published:2026

Abstract

Background and Aims: The growing burden of chronic diseases highlights the need for valid instruments to assess quality of life in palliative care. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Palliative (FACIT-Pal) measures quality of life in patients with chronic illness receiving palliative care. Although it has been validated in 22 other languages, a Persian version has not yet been translated. This study aims to cross-culturally adapt and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the FACIT-Pal for Iranian patients. Methods: This cross-sectional methodological study is designed to cross-culturally adapt and evaluate the psychometric properties of the FACIT-Pal in Iranian individuals with cancer and heart failure. Following FACIT translation guidelines, the process will include two forward translations, reconciliation, backward translation, final review, and qualitative cognitive interviews with 10 patients. Feedback from these patients will be analyzed to further refine the translation. After finalizing the Persian version, 552 Iranian inpatients and outpatients with cancer and heart failure at Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex will be invited to participate after providing written informed consent. Inclusion criteria will be: consent; diagnosis with heart failure or cancer; 18 years of age or older; literacy in Persian. Exclusion criteria will be: diagnosed and documented untreated psychological disorders in their medical record that significantly impair their functioning and ability; having uncorrected communication issues; and completion of less than 80 percent of the meassure. Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability will be used to assess reliability. Construct validity will be examined using confirmatory factor analysis. Statistical tests will be performed using SmartPLS and R software. Conclusion: The Persian version of the FACIT-Pal questionnaire is expected to have good psychometric properties, including satisfactory validity and reliability. This instrument could be used as a standard scale to measure the quality of life of patients receiving palliative care in Iran. Trial Registration: Not applicable. Clinical Trial Number: Not applicable. © 2026 The Author(s). Health Science Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.