Knowledge, Attitudes, and practices regarding the anti-inflammatory diet among the general population

This study aimed to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding the anti-inflammatory diet among the general population.

A multicenter cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults in Guizhou, China, from February to April 2026. Demographic characteristics and KAP dimensions were assessed using a validated questionnaire. KAP levels were categorized according to Bloom's criteria as poor (<60% of the total score), moderate (60-79%), or good (≥80%). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to explore the relationships among knowledge, attitude, and practice.

A total of 679 participants were included, predominantly aged 31-45 years. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 10.36 ± 4.44 (possible range: 0-21), 31.38 ± 4.49 (possible range: 9-45), and 25.89 ± 4.94 (possible range: 8-40), respectively. Significant correlations were observed among the three dimensions (knowledge-attitude r = 0.274; knowledge-practice r = 0.451; attitude-practice r = 0.244; all P < 0.001). SEM indicated significant direct associations of knowledge with attitude (β = 0.482, P = 0.013) and practice (β = 0.486, P = 0.006), as well as an indirect association with practice through attitude (β = 0.185, P = 0.013).

Participants demonstrated inadequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and moderate practices toward the anti-inflammatory diet. Higher knowledge was associated with more favorable attitudes and healthier dietary behaviors. Strengthening public access to accurate dietary information and implementing practical, low-cost educational strategies may enhance population-level adherence to anti-inflammatory dietary patterns.