Nutritional Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of General Physicians Toward the Management of Metabolic Syndrome in Tehran

Despite the dramatic increase in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Iran, nutrition therapy has not been adequately addressed in primary care settings.

This study aimed at investigating the nutritional knowledge, attitude, and practice of general physicians (GPs) toward the management of MetS.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in July 2019 in Tehran. Participants (n = 500) were recruited among GPs working in health centers and completed self-administered questionnaires, which included four sections: (i) six questions regarding demographic characteristics; (ii) six questions about knowledge on MetS; (iii) ten questions on nutritional attitude toward the management of MetS, and (iv) a case study designed to assess the nutritional practice of GPs.

Incorrect responses in knowledge on the definition of MetS and its risk factors and complications were over 60%. In addition, their attitude and practice toward the details of macronutrient and micronutrient intakes in the prevention and treatment of MetS were inadequate.

Inadequate knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding nutrition is an obstacle for providing optimum nutritional counseling by GPs.