Low awareness and knowledge about nutrigenomics among Dutch dieticians...

Based on the analyses of 51 face-to-face interviews with Dutch dieticians in April 2006, it can be concluded that awareness and knowledge on nutrigenomics is low. Almost half of the interviewees had heard of nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics, but most could not explain what either were about. Clients of more than half of the interviewees bring up the topic of heredity or family history during consultations in regard of nutrition-related diseases such as weight and diabetes. Clients almost never ask questions related to genetic testing but, if they do, it is in the context of hyper-lipidemia, hypercholesterolemia and other metabolic disorders.

More than half of the dieticians thought genetic testing would be relevant for dietetic practice. Most, however, experienced difficulties with identifying the practical implications of nutrigenomics. They expected nutrigenomics to offer opportunities for dietetic practice through tools for creating more personalised or individual dietary advice and prevention of diet-related ill health. Some dieticians expressed concerns about cost, the current lack of evidence, and the affect on clients’ attitudes whilst other felt they knew too little to identify their concerns.

In line with these concerns, there is feel that nutrigenomics is not relevant to dietetic practice because of a lack of evidence, anticipated costs of testing, and the existing potential for treatment without genetic testing.

Dieticians expressed a preference for information on nutrigenomics to be offered through scientific resources, but in particular their own professional organisations because of the perceived reliability and accessibility.

The interviews are part of the needs assessment among health professionals in UK, Poland, Germany, Sweden and The Netherlands, which is currently being carried out by NuGO. The goal is to provide information on interest, role, responsibilities, knowledge, and concerns related to nutrigenomics and personalised nutrition.

 

For more information please contact Laura Bouwman (laura.bouwman@wur.nl)

Note: the results of this study are an indication of perceptions of Dutch dieticians and do not necessarily represent views of individuals or professional organisations.