Application of Planned Behavior Theory in Predicting Factors Influencing Nutritional Behaviors Related to Cardiovascular Diseases among Health Volunteers in Kerman

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD( are the main cause of mortality and disability in the world. Incorrect food habits are the most important risk factors for CVD. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of nutritional behaviors related to cardiovascular diseases based on the theory of planned behavior among health volunteers.
This research was a descriptive-analytical and cross-sectional study. The sample was determined based on census and all the 128 active female health volunteers were participated in the study. Data were collected by a researcher made questionnaire that includes demographic variables and the theory of planned behavior constructs (attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intention and nutritional behavior). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, correlation coefficient and linear regression using SPSS 21.
The average age of participants was 39.17±1.01 years and the mean BMI was 26.38±4.69 kg/m2.There was a positive (direct) correlation between TPB constructs. Attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and intention predicted 37% of the variance for nutritional behaviors. Intention was a significant predictor of nutritional behavior (β=0.409) and perceived behavioral control was the strongest predictor for intention (β=0.228).
Perceived behavioral control was a strong predictor for intention and nutritional behavior, therefore, it is recommended to plan interventions according to this factor to improve nutritional behavior.