Knowledge of Missouri Third Grade Students Concerning Dietary Factors that Contribute to Coronary Heart Disease

Abstract

LEARNING OUTCOME: To obtain information concerning third grade students’ knowledge of the relationship between dietary fat and cholesterol, obesity and coronary heart disease.Nutrition knowledge of 4,707 third graders from various socioeconomic groups across the state of Missouri was determined through the use of a knowledge test. The research tool was developed to ascertain if third grade students could identify foods high in dietary fat and cholesterol, and if they would be able to indicate causes of obesity. It was further intended that the research tool would indicate the children's knowledge concerning the role of dietary fat and cholesterol and obesity to coronary heart disease. The nutrition knowledge test was given to third grade students from inner city, urban, suburban, and rural locations while they were in their individual classrooms. Results found that at least 50% of the subjects could identify foods containing dietary cholesterol (with, one exception). Some foods low in cholesterol were incorrectly identified. Approximately two thirds pf the subjects knew the relationship between dietary cholesterol, blood cholesterol, and coronary heart disease. It is anticipated that this information will be utilized for the development and enrichment of nutrition education curriculums. Education should focus on those with limited knowledge and serve to reinforce the knowledge of others.