Objective  To revise the Thyroid Cancer Self-perceived Discrimination Scale (TCSPDS) for head and neck cancer patients, test its reliability, validity, and applicability, and analyze the correlation between discrimination and quality of life.

Methods  The TCSPDS was revised and supplemented with classical measurement theory to form the Head and Neck Cancer Self-perceived Discrimination Scale (HNCSPDS). Patients with head and neck cancer were investigated by questionnaire to test the reliability, validity and applicability of HNCSPDS, and analyze the correlation between discrimination and quality of life.

Results  311 validated questionaire were collect in the research. The HNCSPDS consisted of 13 items, which were divided into 3 subscales: 6 items for stigma, 5 items for self-deprecation, and 2 items for social avoidance. The HNCSPDS had good validity (χ²/df=2.660, RMSEA=0.073, GFI=0.927, CFI=0.972, NFI=0.957, IFI=0.972, TLI=0.963), reliability (Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.955, split half reliability was 0.967, test-retest reliability was 0.845) and applicability [average completion time (14.14±2.18) min and effective completion rate of 91.5%]. Sex and economic burden were independent influencing factors of patients’ discrimination, and patients’ discrimination was negatively correlated with quality of life.

Conclusion  There was a strong discrimination in head and neck cancer patients, and HNCSPDS had good reliability and validity in evaluating the discrimination in head and neck cancer patients, which could be used as an effective evaluation tool for future health education, medical consultation and psychological support, and further improve the physical and mental health and quality of life of patients.

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