Objectives, research design, and implementation of the INCAP longitudinal study

Abstract

The INCAP longitudinal study (1969-1977) was carried out in four Guatemalan villages to asses the effects of intra-uterine and preschool malnutrition on growth and mental development. To achieve this, food supplements were provided to pregnant women and young children. Two villages were given a high-protein, high-energy drink and two a no-protein, low-energy drink. Both supplements contained vitamins and minerals. The nature of the randomized nutritional intervention and that of the medical care programme offered to all the villages are presented. The methods of data collection and quality-control procedures are detailed. The information should be of interest to those wishing to use and understand the INCAP/Cornell data set. -from Authors