Neurological Disorders in Central Spain, Second Survey: Feasibility Pilot Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• The Neurological Disorders in Central Spain, second survey (NEDICES-2) is a planned population-based, closed-cohort study.
• The study aims to enroll over 8000 subjects aged ≥55 years in central Spain.
• A biobank component is integral to the NEDICES-2 study.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of all aspects of the NEDICES-2 study, including methods, database, screening instruments, and questionnaires.
• To assess interexpert agreement on neurological diagnoses.
• To test the viability of collecting biological samples from participants.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involved face-to-face interviews with participants using comprehensive questionnaires.
• Demographic, medication, medical history, and lifestyle data were collected.
• Biological samples (blood, saliva, urine, hair) were obtained, and participants underwent neurological examination.

Main Results:

• 567 participants were enrolled in the pilot; 310 completed all procedures.
• Primary care physician participation challenges led to study area reconfiguration.
• The central biobank required supplementation from local hospital biobanks.

Conclusions:

• Population-based epidemiological surveys necessitate pilot studies to ensure feasibility.
• Pilot studies are crucial for refining population selection, methods, instruments, diagnostic agreement, and data collection strategies.
• Lessons learned from the NEDICES-2 pilot study will optimize the main field study.