The Cerebrovascular Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (CABS-R): the factor structure and psychometric properties of a tool for assessing stroke-related health beliefs

Abstract

Background: Worldwide stroke is serious problem and one
that necessitates continued efforts towards prevention. The
health belief model suggests that improvements in prevention
will follow from incorporating strategies that change
beliefs, but this approach relies on the availability of tools for measuring such change. The Cerebrovascular Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (CABS-R) was developed to meet this need.-----
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the
psychometric properties of the CABS-R.-----
Method: In 2007, 126 Brisbane residents aged 50 years and
older completed the CABS-R. One month later, 70
participants completed the CABS-R again. Internal consistency,test–retest, and exploratory factor analyses were performed on subscales completed by >60 participants.-----
Results: Analyses showed that the CABS-R has moderateto-
good internal consistency and that scores are relatively
stable over time. A four-factor solution was identified,
suggesting that the CABS-R validly assesses stroke
susceptibility and seriousness and the perceived benefits of and barriers to exercise and weight loss for stroke
prevention.-----
Conclusion: This study shows that the CABS-R is useful to
gauge changes in stroke beliefs over time. Consistent with
the model, a four factor solution was found. The CABS-R
may be a useful inclusion in future stroke prevention
programs.