Psychometric properties of WHODAS for use in patients with chikungunya in Brazil

ABSTRACT The aim of this study is to validate an assessment tool for functioning and health according to the conceptual proposal of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), for its use in post-chikungunya patients. This is a validation study with individuals >17 years old of both sexes. Data collection was performed through interviews, gathering information on functioning (WHODAS), quality of life (WHOQOL-bref) and socio-demographic data. Statistical analysis used the Cronbach alpha coefficient (internal consistency) and Spearman correlation coefficient (convergent validation), means and standard deviations, with significance level of 5%. The sample consisted of 68 individuals. The mean values of scores were: 45.4 (±16.38) for WHODAS and 12.1 (±2.10) for WHOQOL-bref. The Cronbach’s alpha of the total value was α=0.93; all WHODAS domains presented values ≥0.75. The total value of WHODAS 2.0 had strong correlation with the physical domain (r=−0.74) and moderate correlation with the psychological (r=−0.68) and social (r=−0.42) domains of the WHOQOL-bref. The results indicate that WHODAS 2.0 is a valid instrument for the measurement of self-perceived functioning alteration in patients affected by chikungunya.