Psychometric properties of the Cystic Fibrosis Eating Attitudes and Behaviours scale (CFEAB) in an adult population

Abstract

Objectives: Individuals with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) may be at an increased risk of developing a range of eating difficulties. Scales designed to measure disordered eating in the general population do not cover CF-specific behaviours resulting in a knowledge gap. The CFEAB was developed as a CF-specific measure assessing eating behaviours and attitudes however little evidence exists regarding its psychometric quality. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to provide a robust assessment of its internal consistency, structural validity, and criterion validity.

Methods: One-hundred and thirty-two people with CF completed self-report scales pertaining to mental health, eating disorders, and the Cystic Fibrosis Eating Attitudes and Behaviours (CFEAB).

Results: Results of exploratory structural equation modelling indicated that a three-factor structure produced good fit with the 24-item CFEAB but a purified 12-item CFEAB displayed superior fit and internal consistency. Also, the 12-item scale predicted significant amounts of variance for anxiety, depression, and eating disorders showing enhanced relevance for clinical use. Conclusions These findings add emphasis to the importance of the validation and development of CF-specific measures and the possible inclusion at clinics to help improve CF patient care.

Keywords: CFEAB, cystic fibrosis; Eating disorders; Exploratory structural equation modelling; Internal consistency.