Brazilian version of the Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale (B-PAID): Validation and identification of individuals at high risk for emotional distress

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to validate the Brazilian version of the Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale (B-PAID) in a sample of outpatients with type 2 diabetes (DM2) and to identify the characteristics of individuals at high risk for emotional distress. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 146 patients randomly selected among those attending outpatient clinics at a University Hospital in Porto Alegre, Brazil. Information was collected regarding age, gender, known duration of diabetes, type of treatment and level of schooling, and a blood sample was taken to measure HbA1c. B-PAID was compared with the already validated Brazilian versions of Satisfaction with Life (SWL) and WHO Quality of Life-Brief (WHOQOL) Scales. One-hundred forty-six DM2 patients (48% males, 59.7 ± 9 years, BMI: 29.7 ± 5.2 kg/m 2, mean duration: 8.63 ± 8 years, HbA 1c: 7.2 ± 1.7%) were included. There were significant correlations between B-PAID and SWL ( r p = 0.55, p < 0.001) and WHOQOL ( r p = −0.33, p < 0.05) Scales. In a multiple regression analysis the B-PAID Scale was associated with younger age ( p = 0.006) and lower education level (p = 0.05). In conclusion, B-PAID is a reliable, valid outcome measure for Brazilian DM2 patients and identifies patients at increased risk for emotional distress who should be prioritized in psychosocial intervention.