Simplified nutritional appetite questionnaire (SNAQ) for cardiopulmonary and metabolic rehabilitation program

Abstract

This study aimed to translate and validate a Brazilian version of the Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire (SNAQ), checking its clarity and validity for the participants of the Cardiopulmonary and Metabolic Rehabilitation Program (CPMR). One hundred and forty-six subjects were interviewed: 79 males, mean age of 63 years (±10) and 67 women, mean age of 66 years (±11). Descriptive analysis was presented as mean, standard deviation and frequency. The internal consistency of the scale was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and factor analysis by the method of extraction of principal components analysis using Kaiser's criteria (eigenvalues > 1). All questions of the instrument showed positive results regarding clarity. The questionnaire items presented factor loadings above 0.40, (ranging from 0.40 to 0.81). Except for the issue related to the amount of daily meals, all others showed high correlation with the total score of the Brazilian version. Regarding the analysis of internal consistency, the result of 0.61 was reached. In conclusion, the Brazilian Version of SNAQ proved to be valid for use in CPMR program participants, thus becoming an important tool in assessing the appetite of the Brazilian population.