Medical Student Attitudes Towards Nutritional and Exercise Science Integration

Abstract

Background Application of the fundamental principles of nutrition and exercise in clinical management can improve the outcomes of highly fatal diseases. The purpose of this study is to assess whether a knowledge gap in preventative measures of nutrition and exercise exists amongst medical students. We aim to see if current medical education provides students with the appropriate background for applying preventative medicine principles to clinical practice. Method Study participants were pooled from current 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year medical students. Of the total 614 students contacted, 42 1st year, 49 2nd year, and 45 3rd year students completed the survey. The survey consisted of 20 questions based on a 10-point Likert Scale that asked students to assess their own self-confidence on various aspects of nutrition and exercise education. Survey responses were aggregated and separated by year of medical training. Average response scores for each cohort were compared using a Mann-Whitney U test. Results Across the three classes, average self-confidence levels in baseline nutrition and exercise understanding were less than 6.6/10, and average confidence in their ability to educate patients on nutrition and exercise needs were less than 6.61/10. Yet, the average score for student perception of the importance of preventative medicine education was greater than 7.5/10. There were no statistical differences in scores amongst the three cohorts for 19 of 20 questions. Conclusion Finding no significant difference between self-confidence in an average 1st year and an average 3rd year medical student suggests an educational deficit in the current curriculum model. The self-confidence scores presented are concerning for poor understanding of exercise and nutritional science principles which could result in poor delegation of preventative advice in the clinical setting. As such, it appears that the current education model is not preparing students for counseling on patients regarding nutrition and exercise.