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

Deepa S Sajjanar; Indira A  Hundekari; Rekha  Udgiri; Vijay Warad; Sanjeev L Sajjannar

doi:10.55489/njcm.150420243758

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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