# Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding nutritional management in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cross-sectional study in rural China

## TL;DR

This study in rural China found that COPD patients have poor knowledge and practices regarding nutrition, suggesting a need for better education.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the KAP of COPD patients in rural China regarding nutritional management.

## Key findings

- COPD patients showed inadequate knowledge and negative attitudes toward nutritional management.
- Strong correlations were found between knowledge, attitudes, and practices in nutritional management.
- Educational programs are recommended to improve dietary practices among COPD patients.

## Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) concerning nutritional management.

A cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2024, involving COPD patients from six hospitals in Jingzhou. Demographic information and KAP scores were collected and analyzed using a self-developed questionnaire.

A total of 411 valid cases were collected, with a valid response rate of 86.16%. Of the participants, 319 (77.62%) were male, 115 (27.98%) had been diagnosed with COPD for more than 10 years, and 316 (76.89%) had received education on nutritional management. The average scores for knowledge, attitudes, and practices were 7.19±5.13 (range: 0–18), 24.81±4.43 (range: 8–40), and 19.51±5.68 (range: 7–35), respectively. Correlation analysis indicated significant positive relationships between knowledge and attitudes (r = 0.629, P < 0.001), knowledge and practices (r = 0.539, P < 0.001), and attitudes and practices (r = 0.501, P < 0.001). Structural equation modeling revealed that knowledge directly influenced attitudes (β = 0.764, P < 0.001) and practices (β = 0.521, P < 0.001), while attitudes also directly impacted practices (β = 0.409, P < 0.001).

Patients with COPD demonstrated inadequate knowledge, negative attitudes, and inactive practices regarding nutritional management, highlighting a significant gap in effective dietary education. To enhance clinical outcomes, healthcare providers should implement targeted educational programs that emphasize the importance of nutritional management for COPD patients.