Validation of mobile phone use recall in the multinational MOBI-kids study
Abstract
Overview
The multinational MOBI-Kids case-control study assessed potential errors in recalling mobile phone usage (MPU) among children and adolescents. This validation study compared self-reported MPU data with mobile network operator billing records.
Findings
- Spearman rank correlations and Kappa coefficients were utilized to evaluate recall accuracy.
- No significant differential recall errors were observed between cases and controls.
- Systematic and random errors in self-reported MPU data were noted, with common underestimation of the number of calls and overestimation of call durations.
- The influence of demographic factors such as country, age, and sex on recall accuracy was minimal.
Conclusion
The study highlights the complexities of using self-reported data for assessing mobile phone use in epidemiological studies. These findings underscore the need for careful interpretation of exposure data, especially when evaluating potential health risks associated with mobile phone usage among young populations.