Adherence to the Mediterranean diet in health personnel from the province of Las Palmas

Abstract

Introduction and objectivesGiven the proven protective effect of the Mediterranean Diet, adherence to it by healthcare personnel and the influence of different factors on dietary compliance were evaluated. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on healthcare personnel, obtaining the data through anonymous surveys that collected demographic characteristics, professional activity, history of cardiovascular risk factors, alcohol, and tobacco consumption, physical activity, and adherence to the Mediterranean Diet, using the 14-point Mediterranean Diet Adherence Score (MEDAS). Adherence and related factors were measured. Results and conclusionsOf a total of 922 respondents (664 women) mean aged 42.61 years (range 20–69), 61.2% showed a good adherence to the Mediterranean Diet. Adherence was significantly associated with the professional categories of physicians (OR = 1.92; 95% CI: 1.20−3.06; p = 0.01) and nurses (OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.08−2.57). Furthermore, it was associated with physical exercise (OR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.29–2.47; p < 0.001) and cooking at home (OR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.00–1.80; p = 0.05). However, adherence was not significantly associated with age or sex, comorbidities, working hours, alcohol, or tobacco consumption. Quantifying knowledge of the diet would be useful, as well as increasing educational programs, promoting physical exercise and cooking habits.