A recent study compared Scoliosis Research Society Outcomes Instrument (SRS-24) scores between American and Japanese idiopathic scoliosis patients before spinal fusion. The research aimed to identify potential baseline differences due to cultural variations. Two groups of 100 patients each, matched for gender, age, curve location, Cobb angle, and thoracic kyphosis, were evaluated. The SRS-24, divided into pain, self-image, function, and activity domains, was used for assessment.
Cross-Cultural Differences Emerge in SRS-24 Domains
Significant differences emerged in several SRS-24 domains. American patients reported significantly lower pain scores (3.7 vs. 4.3, P < 0.0001), function scores (3.9 vs. 4.2, P < 0.01), and activity scores (4.5 vs. 4.9, P < 0.0001) compared to their Japanese counterparts. Conversely, Japanese patients exhibited significantly lower self-image scores (3.5 vs. 4.0, P < 0.0001). These findings highlight a clear disparity in how patients from different cultural backgrounds perceive their condition and its impact on their lives.
Fig 1: Comparison of average SRS-24 domain scores between American and Japanese patients.
Individual Question Analysis Reveals Further Discrepancies
A deeper analysis of individual questions within the SRS-24 revealed significant differences in scores for nearly all items (except questions 5 and 13, P < 0.05). This reinforces the observation that cultural factors influence the perception and reporting of scoliosis-related issues. The specific questions exhibiting differences provide valuable insights into areas where cultural nuances significantly impact patient experiences. For example, questions relating to pain tolerance and social acceptance of physical imperfections may yield different responses based on cultural norms.
Fig 2: Comparison of individual SRS-24 question scores between the two groups.
Cultural Factors Influence Scoliosis Perception and Reporting
The study concludes that SRS-24 scores differ significantly between Japanese and American idiopathic scoliosis populations. Japanese patients reported less back pain, a more negative self-image related to back deformity, better general physical function, and higher daily activity levels. This suggests that cultural differences in pain perception, body image ideals, and social expectations likely contribute to the observed variations in SRS-24 scores. Further research comparing the cultural context of SRS instrument content is warranted to ensure accurate interpretation and cross-cultural applicability of this valuable assessment tool.
Fig 3: Cultural differences can influence how individuals perceive and report health conditions.
The researcher’s comparison of cross-cultural differences underscores the importance of considering cultural context when assessing health outcomes. Future studies should explore these cultural nuances in more depth to develop culturally sensitive assessment tools and improve the quality of care for scoliosis patients worldwide. This research highlights the critical need for further investigation into the cultural factors impacting patient reported outcomes in scoliosis.
