Methodology and development of the Polish Dictionary of Quality of Life Terms

Abstract

Background: Lack of established Polish terminology is a serious limitation of the development of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) studies in Poland. Our goal is to suggest the best translations in order to create the Polish dictionary of QoL terms. Methods: In February 2012, QoL Special Interest Group of ISPOR Poland Chapter took on the task of preparing Polish dictionary of HRQoL terms. The following steps were planned: (1) preparation of a list of target English-language terms, (2) preparation of a reference list of translations already used in Polish literature, (3) step-by-step translation of English terms by individual experts (4) analysis and approval of proposed translations by Expert Committee, (5) re-analysis of key terms, (6) preparation of pre-final dictionary, (7) reviews by Review Committee, (8) preparation and publication of the final version. Expert Committee was comprised of seven Polish investigators with vast experience in the field of HRQoL studies. Review Committee was formed by three authorities in the field of psychometrics, statistics and epidemiology. Results: Until June 2013, there were 13 meetings of Expert Committee: three focused on the development of methodology and ten - on analysis and approval of proposed translations. Initially, we identified 1640 English terms from different sources. After removal of duplicates, final English list comprised of 1314 terms. Pre-final version of vocabulary, ready for peer-review, consists of 1051 Polish translations. Conclusions: We anticipate, that dictionary prepared by the ISPOR Poland Chapter will support practical usage of patient HRQoL in Poland.