A Monte Carlo simulation to validate the EAR cut-point method for assessing the prevalence of nutrient inadequacy at the population level

  • de Lauzon B
  • Volatier J
  • Martin A
50Citations
Citations of this article
46Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to validate the EAR cut-point method for assessing the prevalence of nutrient inadequacy at the population level. DESIGN AND SUBJECTS: Different methods for estimating the prevalence of inadequate intake were compared: the cut-off point method, with cut-off points at the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), 0.66 RDA, 0.50 RDA and the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR); the probability approach; and a Monte Carlo simulation. In total, 591 men and 674 women, aged 20-55 years, were included in the analyses. RESULTS: The prevalence of inadequate intake as estimated by the EAR cut-point method was similar to the prevalence of inadequacy estimated by both probabilistic methods. The cut-point method with RDA, 0.66 RDA and 0.50 RDA as cut-off limits induced an over- or an underestimation of the real prevalence of inadequacy. CONCLUSIONS: Probabilistic methods consider both the intake variability and the requirement variability, and, as a result, their estimation should be closer to the real prevalence of inadequacy. The use of the EAR cut-point method yields a good estimation of the prevalence of inadequate intake, comparable to the probability approach, and limits over- and underestimation of the prevalence induced by other cut-off points.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

de Lauzon, B., Volatier, J., & Martin, A. (2004). A Monte Carlo simulation to validate the EAR cut-point method for assessing the prevalence of nutrient inadequacy at the population level. Public Health Nutrition, 7(7), 893–900. https://doi.org/10.1079/phn2004616

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free