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[Response rate, missing values, validity and reproducibility of responses in mark-sheet and conventional
Y Tsubono1, A Fukao, S Hisamichi
1Department of Public Health, Tohoku University School of Medicine.
Summary
The mark-sheet method (MSM) for epidemiologic surveys is as accurate as the manual method (MM). MSM showed fewer missing values for food frequency items, suggesting its utility in Japanese population health research.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Health Survey Methods
- Data Collection Technologies
Background:
- Self-administered questionnaires are crucial for epidemiologic surveys.
- The mark-sheet method (MSM) offers potential time and cost savings over the manual method (MM).
- Accuracy of MSM in the Japanese general population requires validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the accuracy of MSM versus MM in Japanese adults.
- To evaluate response rates, missing values, validity, and reproducibility between MSM and MM.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 463 residents aged 40-69 in rural Japan.
- Random allocation of participants to either MSM or MM groups.
- Reproducibility assessed via a second questionnaire distribution two weeks later.
Main Results:
- Overall response rates were similar between MSM (96.7%) and MM (98.2%).
- MSM demonstrated significantly lower missing values for food frequency items.
- Reproducibility of food frequency items was comparable between MSM and MM.
Conclusions:
- The mark-sheet method (MSM) is a viable and accurate alternative to the manual method (MM) for epidemiologic surveys in Japan.
- MSM's efficiency in handling food frequency data warrants its use in population health studies.