Validity and reliability of Slovenian translation and adaptation of Eating Assessment Tool (SI-EAT-10) in oropharyngeal dysphagia.

Abstract

This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Slovenian translation of The Eating Assessment Tool (SI-EAT-10) as a patient-reported measure of swallowing-related symptoms in adults with dysphagia. The SI-EAT-10 was translated according to established guidelines and administered to 203 patients and 104 healthy controls. Content and criterion validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability was assessed. Criterion validity was evaluated through correlations with the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS). Patients had higher SI-EAT-10 scores than heathy controls (median 7 vs. 0). The threshold of ≥ 3 points showed 100% sensitivity and 93% specificity (AUC = 0.96). Strong correlations were found with FOIS (<i>ρ</i> = -0.84) and PAS (<i>ρ</i> = -0.89). Test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.97). Internal consistency was very high in patients (<i>λ</i>₂ =0.90) and moderate in healthy controls (<i>λ</i>₂ = 0.69). Content validity was rated as adequate. The SI-EAT-10 is a reliable and valid self-assessment instrument with strong psychometric characteristics. It is a useful patient-reported outcome measure for clinical and research use in Slovenian-speaking populations, with relevance for evaluating swallowing-related symptoms, supporting further diagnostic procedures, and rehabilitation planning.