SOURCES OF NUTRITION INFORMATION AND NUTRITION KNOWLEDGE OF ADULTS IN ODO GBOLU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Good nutrition information sources are crucial as they positively impact dietary decisions
and support a healthy nutritional status. This study therefore assessed the sources of
nutrition information and level of nutrition knowledge of adults in, Osoosa town, Odogbolu
Local Government area, Ogun State. Study design was cross-sectional and a pre-test
validated questionnaire was used in gathering information. Knowledge scale of 0-9points
was developed and classified as: 0-3points-poor knowledge, 4-6points-fair knowledge and 7
9points good knowledge. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency,
percentage, mean and standard deviation. Pearson Correlation Coefficient were then used to
determine the relationship between the variables. A total of 200 adults participated in the
study with a mean age of 49.84 ± 11.40 years. More than half (60.5%) were female and most
of the respondent’s (44%) highest education qualification was secondary school certificate.

More than half of the respondent’s (75.5%) were self-employed and could read and write
(68%). Nutrition information were mostly sourced from friends and peers (59%), radio (57%)
and doctors and nurses (57%) while the least source of nutrition information was from sports
club (12.5%). Participants possessed 7.5%, 48% and 44.5%, poor, fair and good nutrition
knowledge, respectively. A significant relationship between the respondent's source of
nutrition information and nutrition knowledge was established; p=0.00. Based on the
findings of this study, most of respondents have fair knowledge of nutrition and sourced their
nutrition information mostly from friends. More nutrition information sources were
recommended while preserving the current preferred means.