Exploring the future of nutrigenomics: dietitians' perceptions on integration in Indian practice.

Abstract

Background: Nutrigenomics, the study of nutrient-gene interactions, holds immense potential for alleviating India's overburdened healthcare system and improving overall health-related quality of life. Yet, its utility remains in the nascent stages. To understand the factors affecting the implementation of nutrigenomics, we investigate the perceptions of practising dietetic professionals.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of Indian dietetic professionals related to the implementation of Nutrigenomics and to understand the factors affecting it.

Methods: A total of 249 Indian dietetic professionals participated in an online survey between April 2024 - May 2024. This data was then statistically analyzed using the Chi-square test and Fisher's Exact test. Furthermore, in-depth interviews were conducted for 10 out of the 249 participants, the data collected from the interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: Majority of the dietetic professionals had high awareness (97.2%) and interest (87.5%) in incorporating genetic testing into their practice. While the survey identified several barriers to its integration, such as high costs, (p-value = 0.000), lack of clinical trials (p-value = 0.013), and ethical concerns (p-value = 0.023). The in-depth interviews highlighted the need for increased education, standardization of testing panels, and collaboration among healthcare professionals to enhance the feasibility of nutrigenomics integration.

Conclusion: Indian dietetic professionals express a positive outlook on integrating nutrigenomics into mainstream healthcare practice. However, successful establishment of personalized nutrition in India also requires addressing key challenges with respect to education, cost, training, development of regulatory frameworks and raising public awareness.