Background: Many psychosocial interventions and patent-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are developed in English. While some major suites of PROMs are routinely translated into languages other than English few psychosocial interventions have been similarly translated into other languages with consideration of cultural translations required. Here we detail a methodology to support cultural translation of both interventions and PROMs.
Methods:
Translation of PROMs can be achieved following EORTC/MAPI guidelines on linguistic validation. The process involves two independent forward translations, reconciliation, two independent backward translations by bilingual experts, and cognitive debriefing interviews with content experts and people with lived experience. Translated versions are then compared with the original versions for semantic, cultural and conceptual equivalence.
Psychosocial interventions can be translated using the EORTC/MAI guidelines, but require additional consideration of the psychological concepts and constructs addressed and their relevance to specific cultural groups. Initially enabling clinicians working with the target populations to observe, either in real-time or recorded, therapy sessions facilitates in-depth consideration of the transferability of therapeutic approaches and identification of where adaptations may be required to bridge cultural differences. Further exploration of adapted therapy manuals with individuals with lived experience allows identification of explanations and examples which lack salience for the target cultural groups.
Conclusions: Meticulous translation of PROMs and psychosocial interventions will facilitate their rapid sharing and global reach, ultimately bringing improvements in psychosocial outcomes to people with cancer, particularly in low middle income countries where resources for development of PROMs and interventions are more limited.