Development and Validation of a Food Frequency Questionnaire for Use in Epidemiological Studies Among North Karnataka Population

Authors

  • Deepa S Sajjanar BLDE (DU) SBMP medical college hospital and research centre, Vijayapura, India
  • Indira A Hundekari BLDE (DU) SBMP medical college hospital and research centre, Vijayapura, India
  • Rekha Udgiri BLDE (DU) SBMP medical college hospital and research centre, Vijayapura, India
  • Vijay Warad BLDE (DU) SBMP medical college hospital and research centre, Vijayapura, India
  • Sanjeev L Sajjannar BLDE (DU) SBMP medical college hospital and research centre, Vijayapura, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.150420243758

Keywords:

Dietary assessment, Food frequency questionnaire, Validity, Epidemiological studies, North Karnataka

Abstract

Background: Dietary records, such as food diaries (FD) and food frequency questionnaires (FFQs), are widely employed in large-scale epidemiological analyses. Given the regional diversity in dietary habits, this study aimed to develop and assess the reproducibility and construct validity of a novel FFQ tailored for northern Karnataka (FFQ-NK).

Methodology: A detailed food list was created based on food use and market surveys in the region. Utilizing data from 24-hour diet recalls and a supplemental focus group discussion, a 116-item semi-quantitative FFQ was developed for adults in north Karnataka.

Setting and Subjects: Involving 100 participants from north Karnataka, the FFQ was interviewer administered and the participants also completed three 24-hour dietary recalls (DR), serving as a reference for validity assessment.

Results: Though the FFQ indicated higher food and nutrient intake compared to food records. Significant correlations were found for nutrient intake. Pearson’s correlation coefficients between FFQs and DRs ranged from 0.717-0.965 (isoflavonols to energy).

Conclusions: The developed and validated FFQ is a valuable tool for epidemiological studies requiring nutrient intake estimates in the north Karnataka population. It serves as an effective dietary assessment tool for individuals aged 20 and older in large-scale epidemiological studies.

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Published

2024-04-01

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1.
Sajjanar DS, Hundekari IA, Udgiri R, Warad V, Sajjannar SL. Development and Validation of a Food Frequency Questionnaire for Use in Epidemiological Studies Among North Karnataka Population. Natl J Community Med [Internet]. 2024 Apr. 1 [cited 2024 Dec. 13];15(04):289-98. Available from: https://njcmindia.com/index.php/file/article/view/3758

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