Attrition in Long-Term Nutrition Research Studies: A Commentary by the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Early Nutrition Research Working Group. Issue 1 (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fewtrell, Mary S.; Domellöf, Magnus; Hojsak, Iva; Hulst, Jessie M.; Kennedy, Kathy; Koletzko, Berthold; Mihatsh, Walter; Stijnen, Theo
• Is Part Of: Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition. Volume 62:Issue 1(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: attrition -- loss to follow-up -- nutrition -- observational studies -- paediatrics -- randomised trials; Children -- Nutrition -- Periodicals; Pediatric gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Infants -- Nutrition -- Periodicals; Nutrition disorders in children -- Periodicals; Child Nutrition -- Periodicals; Digestive System -- growth & development -- Periodicals; Gastrointestinal Diseases -- Periodicals; Infant Nutrition -- Periodicals; Nutrition Disorders -- Periodicals; Child; 618.923
• DOI: 10.1097/MPG.0000000000000992
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0277-2116

Abstract

Abstract : ABSTRACT: Long-term follow-up of randomised trials and observational studies provide the best evidence presently available to assess long-term effects of nutrition, and such studies are an important component in determining optimal infant feeding practices. Attrition is, however, an almost inevitable occurrence with increasing age at follow-up. There is a common assumption that studies with <80% follow-up rates are invalid or flawed, and this criticism seems to be more frequently applied to follow-up studies involving randomised trials than observational studies. In this article, we explore the basis and evidence for this "80% rule" and discuss the need for greater consensus and clear guidelines for analysing and reporting results in this specific situation.