Translation and Validation of the Japanese Version of the Dialysis Patient‐Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Regular exercise is recommended for patients undergoing haemodialysis; however, participation rates remain low in Japan. Perceived benefits and barriers are key cognitive determinants of exercise behaviour, yet no validated instrument exists to assess these perceptions among Japanese patients receiving haemodialysis. OBJECTIVES: Translate and culturally adapt the Dialysis Patient-Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale into Japanese and evaluate its psychometric properties. DESIGN: A methodological study. PARTICIPANTS: In total, 150 adults undergoing maintenance haemodialysis were recruited from facilities across Japan. MEASUREMENTS: Structural validity was examined using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Concurrent validity was assessed through correlations with physical activity levels measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Known-groups validity was evaluated by comparing scale scores between participants with and without exercise habits. Reliability was assessed using internal consistency and item-total correlations. RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original six-factor structure with acceptable model fit (CFI = 0.922, TLI = 0.910, RMSEA = 0.055 and SRMR = 0.062). The Japanese version showed moderate concurrent validity with physical activity levels (Spearman's r = 0.379, p < 0.01) and discriminated between participants with and without exercise habits (p < 0.001). Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's α = 0.901), and all item-total correlation coefficients exceeded acceptable thresholds. CONCLUSIONS: The Japanese version of the Dialysis Patient-Perceived Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing exercise-related perceptions among patients receiving haemodialysis in Japan. This tool may facilitate individualised exercise counselling and support culturally appropriate exercise interventions in renal care.