Validation of the short version of the Metacognitive Prospective Memory Inventory (MPMI-S) for Portuguese cancer survivors [comunicação oral: poster]

Abstract

Background: The impact of cancer and its treatments on cognitive function has been increasingly studied. While inconsistencies exist depending on assessment measures (neuropsychological tests vs. self-reports), subjective memory complaints are well established. However, there is a lack of specific tools to assess the perceived impact on different types of memory. This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Shortened Version of the Metacognitive Prospective Memory Inventory (MPMI-S) for Portuguese cancer patients. Impairments in this cognitive function—the ability to recall intended actions at a future moment—can affect treatment adherence and prognosis. Materials and Methods: The sample included 111 participants aged 18 to 65 years (M=49.3; SD=9.4), with breast cancer being the most frequently reported diagnosis (71.2%, n=79). Approximately 73.9% (n=82) had received chemotherapy. The process involved translation-back translation, expert panel analysis, and discussions with target population members. Psychometric properties were evaluated through reliability analysis (Cronbach’s α) and factor structure analysis via principal component analysis with oblimin rotation, alongside correlations with related constructs like personality, distress, and quality of life. Results: The measure revealed a distinct factor structure from the original German version, comprising four factors that explained 61.52% of the variance: (i) verification and planning strategies, (ii) imagery and mental visualization strategies, (iii) prospective forgetting, and (iv) recording/note-taking strategies. All factors showed adequate internal consistency, with significant positive intercorrelations and associations with conscientiousness, agreeableness, distress, and quality of life. Conclusion: The MPMI-S is a promising and reliable tool for assessing self-reported prospective memory capabilities and compensation strategies among cancer patients.