Awareness of food-drug interactions (FDIs) among Jordanian Dietitians

Abstract

Food and Drug Interactions (FDIs) are one of the most serious problems encountered by the patient as well as by the health care team. FDI can affect patients’ health, especially the most susceptible ones. Dietitians should have adequate information on FDIs since this affects dietary management. To the best of the investigators’ knowledge, so far, no studies have evaluated the awareness of dietitians in the field of FDIs. This investigation is the first study on awareness of Jordanian dietitians on FDIs. Awareness is investigated usually by knowledge, attitudes, and practices. A questionnaire was developed to test awareness parameters of Jordanian dietitians regarding FDIs. The questionnaire was validated and tested for reliability. The questionnaire consisted of 4 parts i.e., sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice questions. The questionnaire was distributed to a convenient sample of 360 Jordanian dietitians. The questionnaire was valid and had a satisfactory reliability (Cronbach's-alpha value = 0.622). Jordanian dietitians scored between 0 and 36 out of 39. The mean, median, and standard deviation values of awareness were 23.45, 24.00, and 5.468 indicating very good awareness of FDIs by dietitians. The awareness of Jordanian dietitians towards DRIs should be improved by emphasizing this subject within books and magazines, scientific books in medicine, internet, social media, scientific articles, medical representatives, manufacturers websites, as well as dietitians.