Quality assessment criteria for prevalence studies12
| Items | Quality score |
|---|---|
| External validity | |
| 1. Was the study's target population a close representation of the national population in relation to relevant variables? | (1 point) |
| 2. Was the sampling frame a true or close representation of the target population? | (1 point) |
| 3. Was some form of random selection used to select the sample, OR was a census undertaken? | (1 point) |
| 4. Was the likelihood of non-response bias minimal? | (1 point) |
| Total (4 points) | |
| Internal validity | |
| 1. Were data collected directly from the participants (as opposed to a proxy)? | (1 point) |
| 2. Was an acceptable case definition used in the study? | (1 point) |
| 3. Was the study instrument that measured the parameter of interest shown to have validity and reliability? | (1 point) |
| 4. Was the same mode of data collection used for all participants? (1 point) | (1 point) |
| 5. Was the length of the shortest prevalence period for the parameter of interest appropriate? | (1 point) |
| 6. Were the numerator(s) and denominator(s) for the parameter of interest appropriate? | (1 point) |
| Total (6 points) | |