Barriers to adopting a Mediterranean diet in Northern European adults at high risk of developing Cardiovascular disease.

Abstract

Background: Strong evidence links consumption of the Mediterranean diet (MD) to a reduced risk of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), however there is uncertainty whether non-Mediterranean regions will adopt this dietary pattern. This research aimed to investigate attitudes towards a MD in individuals at high CVD risk in a Northern European population. Involvement of the target population in early intervention development helps to understand factors influencing dietary change. Results will inform the development of an intervention to encourage dietary change towards a MD. Methods: A qualitative methodology using focus group discussion was undertaken. Focus groups (n=12) were held with the target group and explored awareness of a MD, attitudes towards MD components and barriers to dietary change towards a MD. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Nvivo software was used to manage the coded data. Results: Sixty-seven adults at high risk of CVD (60% female, mean age 64 y) took part. Participants were aware of the MD but knowledge of the specific composition of this dietary pattern was limited. Barriers associated with healthy eating in general were evident, however, barriers specific to following a MD were also identified, including food specific barriers, consumption of a moderate fat diet, culture and climate. Conclusions: Although there was good awareness of the term MD in this Northern European sample at high CVD risk, there was limited knowledge of the specific composition of a traditional MD and a number of barriers to adopting a MD were identified. Knowledge gaps and barriers revealed will inform the development of a MD intervention in a Northern European population.