Stability-based validation of dietary patterns obtained by cluster analysis.
Nutr J
; 16(1): 4, 2017 01 14.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-28088234
BACKGROUND: Cluster analysis is a data-driven method used to create clusters of individuals sharing similar dietary habits. However, this method requires specific choices from the user which have an influence on the results. Therefore, there is a need of an objective methodology helping researchers in their decisions during cluster analysis. The objective of this study was to use such a methodology based on stability of clustering solutions to select the most appropriate clustering method and number of clusters for describing dietary patterns in the NESCAV study (Nutrition, Environment and Cardiovascular Health), a large population-based cross-sectional study in the Greater Region (N = 2298). METHODS: Clustering solutions were obtained with K-means, K-medians and Ward's method and a number of clusters varying from 2 to 6. Their stability was assessed with three indices: adjusted Rand index, Cramer's V and misclassification rate. RESULTS: The most stable solution was obtained with K-means method and a number of clusters equal to 3. The "Convenient" cluster characterized by the consumption of convenient foods was the most prevalent with 46% of the population having this dietary behaviour. In addition, a "Prudent" and a "Non-Prudent" patterns associated respectively with healthy and non-healthy dietary habits were adopted by 25% and 29% of the population. The "Convenient" and "Non-Prudent" clusters were associated with higher cardiovascular risk whereas the "Prudent" pattern was associated with a decreased cardiovascular risk. Associations with others factors showed that the choice of a specific dietary pattern is part of a wider lifestyle profile. CONCLUSION: This study is of interest for both researchers and public health professionals. From a methodological standpoint, we showed that using stability of clustering solutions could help researchers in their choices. From a public health perspective, this study showed the need of targeted health promotion campaigns describing the benefits of healthy dietary patterns.
Key words
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Cluster Analysis
/
Diet
Type of study:
Etiology_studies
/
Observational_studies
/
Prevalence_studies
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Prognostic_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
Aspects:
Equity_inequality
Limits:
Adolescent
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Adult
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Aged
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Female
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Humans
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Male
/
Middle aged
Language:
En
Journal:
Nutr J
Journal subject:
CIENCIAS DA NUTRICAO
Year:
2017
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Country of publication: