Knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthy eating among public school teachers in Kuwait

Background: Healthy food is essential for strengthening the body and protecting it from diseases. Conversely, unhealthy food can cause severe diseases in children and adolescents. The present study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice among teachers about healthy food and to examine the associated factors. Design and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to 300 teachers in the Hawalli and Al-Jahra educational areas in Kuwait over approximately six months in 2019. Results: Those who participated in a course had significantly greater knowledge than those who did not (p=0.005). The respondents in Hawalli had a significantly lower mean attitude than Al-Jahrah teachers (7.9 +/- 1.5 vs 8.2 +/- 1.5, respectively; p=0.03). Conclusions: Limited knowledge combined with a low level of positive attitude suggests an ongoing educational workshop should be established to promote healthy nutrition.