A survey of dietetics professionals' knowledge of and attitudes toward cholesterol management

Dietetics professionals in Wisconsin (n = 687) were surveyed to assess their knowledge, attitudes, practices, experience, and educational interests regarding cholesterol management. The survey, conducted to guide the development of cholesterol education programming in the state, found that most dietetics professionals are familiar with and support the guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Ninety-three percent of dietetics professionals responding to the survey believe that reducing serum cholesterol levels will reduce the risk of heart disease; the same percentage of respondents were familiar with NCEP guidelines for detecting and treating blood cholesterol levels and knew which cholesterol levels should be treated. Seventy-three percent were familiar with the American Heart Association step 1 diet, and 69% were familiar with the step 2 diet. On average, survey respondents defined a cholesterol level of 6.12 mmol/L as "high risk"; this value is almost identical to the NCEP definition. Respondents were optimistic about patients' ability to reduce their blood cholesterol levels through dietary modifications. Dietetics professionals are interested in education on cholesterol management, although individual educational interests vary depending on the respondent's area of practice.