Factors Influencing Nutrition Label Reading Behavior in Individuals With Selected Chronic Diseases

ABSTRACT

Background: Proper nutrition is essential in managing chronic diseases, and knowing how to use nutrition labels is vital in this respect. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine factors impacting nutrition label use and identify the most used, most preferred, and most impactful sources of nutrition information. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using a web link was distributed through a convenience sample of pharmacies. Data were collected on nutrition knowledge; label knowledge, use, and attitudes; demographics; and nutrition information sources. Predictors of label use were identified. Label use and knowledge were compared among those with and without chronic disease and caregivers of those with chronic disease. Results: Of 284 respondents, 68% were women, 56% had a bachelor’s degree or higher, and 47% reported at least one chronic disease. Label use was significantly predicted only by nutrition knowledge, which in turn was predicted by label knowledge, disease duration, and education. Discussion: Those with chronic disease read labels more but showed less label knowledge. Web pages, physicians, and health education professionals were the most preferred sources of nutrition information. Translation to Health Education Practice: Individuals with chronic diseases and their caregivers need interventions to improve nutrition knowledge, probably through web pages and physician offices and by improving patient access to dietitians and Certified Health Education Specialists.

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge Bailee Binks for contributing to the literature review; the Roseman University College of Pharmacy for student participation and for providing funding for survey respondent gift cards; Jonnell Masson, Lacie Peterson, and Denise Small for assisting with the questionnaire; and the Harmons Pharmacy staff for distributing the study flyer.