Abstract
Background
Evidence suggests that disordered eating behaviors can result in eating disorders, which is already a reality for the Mexican population, representing an increasingly complex public health problem. Early detection is therefore essential.
Aim of the study
To obtain the sensitivity, specificity, and cut-off points of the Brief Questionnaire for Measuring Disordered Eating Behaviors to identify eating disorders in Mexican women.
Methods
The Eating Disorders Examination-Questionnaire and the Brief Questionnaire for Disordered Eating Behaviors were applied to patients diagnosed with eating disorders at two public health institutions and university students. ROC analysis was performed to determine sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and cut-off points.
Results
Three cut-off points were obtained: first: eight points (Sensitivity = 60.7%, Specificity = 92.2%), showing low risk; second: 11 points (sensitivity = 24.1%; specificity = 98.9%), detecting moderate risk; and, finally, 15 points and over (sensitivity = 4.46%; specificity = 100%), indicating high risk.
Conclusions
The instrument adequately identifies those individuals who are not at risk for eating disorders, making it possible to channel prevention efforts towards those who do have DEB, thus optimizing resources.
Level of evidence
Level III: case–control analytic study.
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References
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The authors have no competing interests to declare.
Ethical approval
Ethical approval for the protocol was obtained from the Ramón de la Fuente National Institute of Psychiatry Ethical Committee, the Salvador Zubirán National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition, and the Academic Committee of the Biological and Health Sciences of the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Xochimilco.
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Informed consent was requested from both patients and students. In the case of minors, informed consent was requested from the child’s parents or guardian.
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Unikel-Santoncini, C., Muñoz-Espinosa, A., de León-Vázquez, C.D. et al. Sensitivity, specificity, and cut-off points in the Brief Questionnaire for Measuring Disordered Eating Behaviors in Mexican Women. Eat Weight Disord 26, 2401–2405 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40519-020-01073-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40519-020-01073-5