Nutritional Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of General Physicians Toward the Management of Metabolic Syndrome in Tehran

Background: Despite the dramatic increase in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Iran, nutrition therapy has not been adequately addressed in primary care settings. Objectives: This study aimed at investigating the nutritional knowledge, attitude, and practice of general physicians (GPs) toward the management of MetS. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in July 2019 in Tehran. Participants (n = 500) were recruited among GPs working in health centers and completed self-administered questionnaires, which included four sections: (i) six questions regarding demographic characteristics; (ii) six questions about knowledge on MetS; (iii) ten questions on nutritional attitude toward the management of MetS, and (iv) a case study designed to assess the nutritional practice of GPs. Results: Incorrect responses in knowledge on the definition of MetS and its risk factors and complications were over 60%. In addition, their attitude and practice toward the details of macronutrient and micronutrient intakes in the prevention and treatment of MetS were inadequate. Conclusions: Inadequate knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding nutrition is an obstacle for providing optimum nutritional counseling by GPs.