Translation and validation of the Chinese version of the Cancer Stigma Scale.

Abstract

To test the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Cancer Stigma Scale (CASS). After translation, back-translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the CASS into Chinese (C-CASS), a random online survey of the general population in China was conducted. Reliability was analyzed by internal consistency (Cronbach's α) and construct validity was analyzed by confirmatory factor analysis. The C-CASS was evaluated in a sample of 382 non-cancer patients through online format. The study found that the C-CASS had satisfactory internal reliability (Cronbach's α of the overall scale and six components was 0.88 and 0.70-0.89, respectively). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the six-factor structure (χ2/df = 2.2, GFI = 0.91, CFI = 0.94, RMSEA = 0.056, SRMR = 0.065). Younger individuals and those who had less knowledge of cancer showed more negative attitudes towards cancer. The C-CASS had adequate internal consistency, reliability and indices of model fit, allowing its feasible use to assess levels of cancer stigma in Chinese populations.