Abstract

Introduction: As documented in epidemiological studies, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is fast increasing. Changes in lifestyle factors like improper dietary habits could positively affect risk factors of NCDs. We conducted this study to evaluate the nutritional knowledge, attitudes and practices among Tehranian schoolchildren of district 13, Tehran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 3 phases between 2003 and 2007, on 19944 schoolchildren, aged 11-17 years within the frame work of Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) in district 13 of Tehran. The schools were randomly divided into the intervention (n=12) and control (n=10) groups. Besides sending posters and pamphlets for the intervention area, we educated volunteers (teachers and parents) on interventions. Children were assessed using a knowledge-attitude and practice questionnaire every 2 year, which they completed themselves. Results: Of the subjects studied, 50.6 and 49.4% were male and female, respectively. Initially, mean±SD of knowledge, attitude and practice scores were 27±5, 19±6 and 33±6, for both the intervention and control groups. Intervention vs. control area: 1.6 vs. 2.1 percent of adolescents had a poor nutritional knowledge during 2003, which changed to 1.7 vs. 2.1% and 18 vs 17% had a good nutritional practices in the first phase which was 29 vs. 28% in 2007. The scores increased for intervention group during first phase of intervention (2005) but showed no difference with the scores of 2007, except for practice and were equal for two areas knowledge: 28±5, attitude: 20±5 and practice: 35±7. Conclusions: There was an increasing trend in scores, but levels of poor attitude and practice were high among children, indicating the necessity of nutritional modeling education for adolescents and implementation of changes in school strategies to promote the quality of their dietary patterns.