The MNA, but not the DETERMINE, screening tool is a valid indicator of nutritional status in elderly Africans
RIS ID
19206
Abstract
Objectives: To compare the validity of existing nutrition screening tools for use in older South Africans. Design: A cross-sectional study in 283 free-living and institutionalized black South Africans aged 60+ years.Methods: Trained fieldworkers administered a 24-hour recall, the DETERMINE and Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) screening tools and performed anthropometrical measurements and physical function tests. Biochemical indicators assessed included serum albumin; haemoglobin, ferritin, vitamin B12, RBC folate, cholesterol and vitamin C. The 6-item Cognitive Impairment Test was used to assess cognitive function.Results: MNA score was positively and significantly associated with anthropometrical measurements, cognitive function, IADL and, in women only, % body fat, handgrip strength and ADL. Compared against the MNA, the DETERMINE instrument had a low positive predictive value (55.6 %) and specificity (11.2 %), resulting in a high rate of false positives classified as being malnourished. Conclusion: The MNA, but not the DETERMINE, screening tool is appropriate for use in identifying older black South Africans who are either malnourished, or at risk of malnutrition.
Publication Details
Charlton, K. E., Kolbe-Alexander, T. & Nel, J. (2007). The MNA, but not the DETERMINE, screening tool is a valid indicator of nutritional status in elderly Africans. Nutrition, 23 (7-8), 533-542.