The level of knowledge and attitudes of mothers to genetically modified organisms.

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the levels of knowledge and attitudes of mothers regarding the products produced by the genetically modified organisms. Method: The study population of this descriptive research consists of the mothers that have infants (0-1 year of age), resident in an area of a family health center within the boundaries of the Province of Erzurum, and 397 mothers, who had been selected by simple random sampling method and had accepted to participate in the research. Data were collected in June-September 2013 through a questionnaire prepared based on the literature. Percentiles and averages were applied to analyze the data. Ethical principles were applied. Results: Mothers’ perceptions of risk on GMOs was high, but their level of knowledge was low. Mothers do not want to use GMO products in children’s nutrition and consider that these products are likely to have harmful effects in children’s nutrition. In addition, the majority of mothers stated that they would not purchase these products. Conclusion: Training events should be organized to eliminate the lack of knowledge and to increase awareness of mothers about the issue. It is not possible to draw a harm or benefit conclusion regarding the issue for the moment. However, minimization of the risks that will possibly affect our environment and the future generations, and taking the necessary measures should not be ignored.