Validity of Parent-Reported Weight and Height in Preschool Children
Author Information
Author(s): Huybrechts Inge, Himes John H, Ottevaere Charlene, De Vriendt Tineke, De Keyzer Willem, Cox Bianca, Van Trimpont Inge, De Bacquer Dirk, De Henauw Stefaan
Primary Institution: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
Hypothesis
How accurate are parent-reported height and weight measurements of preschool children when compared to actual measurements taken by nurses?
Conclusion
Parents' measurements of their children's weight and height at home are more accurate than their estimates without measurement.
Supporting Evidence
- Parents who measured their child's weight and height had higher accuracy than those who estimated.
- Sensitivity for identifying underweight was 73% when measured and 55% when estimated.
- Specificity for identifying overweight was 97% when measured and 93% when estimated.
Takeaway
When parents measure their child's weight and height at home, they are more likely to get it right than if they just guess.
Methodology
Parents reported their child's height and weight, which were then measured by nurses using standardized procedures.
Potential Biases
Respondents may have been more willing or able to provide accurate assessments than non-respondents, potentially underestimating errors.
Limitations
The study sample may have selection bias as higher educated parents were overrepresented and those who did not complete the questionnaire were excluded.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 3-7 years, 52.9% male, with a mean age of 4.8 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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