Evaluation of nutrition knowledge using the komPAN questionnaire in acute coronary syndrome patients hospitalized in an invasive cardiology unit. A preliminary report

Abstract

Introduction. Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of mortality in Poland. Thus, both primary and secondary prevention should include lifestyle modification, including proper nutrition. The aim of the study was to examine dietary habits and nutritional beliefs for the purpose of evaluating the nutrition knowledge of cardiac patients after an acute coronary syndrome [ACS; non-ST-segment myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI)] undergoing invasive treatment. Material and methods. The study included 100 patients, including 35 women and 65 men aged 53.43 ± 10.11 years [mean ± standard deviation (SD)], admitted urgently due to ACS to the 2nd Department of Cardiology. The study used part C of the questionnaire: “Nutrition Beliefs” that consisted of 25 statements assessing nutrition knowledge. For each correct answer (“True” or “False”), 1 point was assigned, and for an incorrect answer or “Hard to say”, 0 points were assigned. Then, the points were added up. Results. It was found that only 20.8% (N = 21) of subjects followed dietary recommendations as advised by a physician. The majority of respondents were diagnosed with an excessive body mass: obesity in 35.4% (N = 35) of subjects, and overweight in 38.4% (N = 38) of subjects. Nutritional self-assessment was reported to be at a good level in 71.3% of patients (N = 72). However, the actual nutrition knowledge was found to be at a good level in only 6.9% (N = 7) of subjects. Conclusion. Patient nutrition knowledge as assessed using the komPAN questionnaire was found to be mostly at a satisfactory level, despite high self-assessment res ults provided by the respondents. There is a great need for regular nutrition education.