This study aims to make a proper scientific assessment on the dietary intake and physical activity levels of a representative sample of the urban population of 8 Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Perú and Venezuela). The study was based on complex, multistage sample design, stratified by conglomerates, being all regions of each country represented, and random selection of main cities within each region according to probability proportional to size method. Sample will be stratified by gender, age (15 to 65 years old), and socioeconomic level. Socioeconomic levels will be balanced and divided in three strata (high, medium and low) based on national indexes used in each country. All the study sites are university-based and will adhere to a common study protocol for training, implementation of fieldwork, data collection and management, and quality control procedures to be performed simultaneously. All participants will be required to provide a written informed consent. A pilot study at small scale will be performed in each country in order to test procedures and tools involved in ELANS. Anthropometric variables, including body weight, height, waist, hip and neck circumferences will be measured according to a standardized protocol. Nutritional intake evaluation will be performed using two 24-hour dietary recalls, with 'multiple pass' procedure and a food frequency questionnaire. Nutritional data will be entered in Nutrition Data System for Research (NDS-R, Minnesota University) after a harmonization process between local foods and NDSR database. Physical activity and energy expenditure will be assessed by IPAQ-long version questionnaire and 7-day accelerometry.
Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina