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International Journal of Public Health

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01-08-2010 | Original Article

Sampling procedures and sample representativeness in a national telephone survey: a Portuguese example

Authors: Sofia Correia, Paulo Dinis, Francisco Rolo, Nuno Lunet

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 4/2010

Abstract

Objectives

This paper aims to assess the yielding of the sampling procedures and the representativeness of a sample evaluated in a national telephone survey in Portugal.

Methods

The Portuguese telephone book (2007/2008) was the sampling frame for subjects >39 years (n = 1,934). The time spent with interviews and unsuccessful contacts was quantified and the yielding of the contact attempts compared according different schedules. Demographic and health characteristics of the participants were compared with those of the Portuguese population.

Results

Among eligible individuals, the percentage of refusals was 40.4%, higher on Saturdays (45.2% vs. 30.7%) and evenings (45.2% vs. 36.7%). Evening interviews yielded a higher percentage of men (26.2% vs. 21.0%) and active workers (31.8% vs. 21.8%). Compared to the Portuguese population, our sample included a higher proportion of women (76.7% vs. 54.1%), elderly (>59 years: 61.4% vs. 46.2%) and more educated participants (>4 years: 38.3% vs. 26.3%). Sex- and age-specific estimates of smoking and obesity were similar to those in the Portuguese population.

Conclusion

Despite the difficulties in reaching participants, this strategy may produce unbiased estimates for important health indicators.

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Title: Sampling procedures and sample representativeness in a national telephone survey: a Portuguese example
Authors: Sofia Correia
Paulo Dinis
Francisco Rolo
Nuno Lunet
Publication date: 01-08-2010
Publisher: SP Birkhäuser Verlag Basel
Published in: International Journal of Public Health / Issue 4/2010
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-009-0102-2

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Sampling procedures and sample representativeness in a national telephone survey: a Portuguese example

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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