Assessing Awareness, Attitudes, and Practices of Medical Students Regarding Food Hygiene and Safety: A Cross-sectional Study at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Background: Given the importance of health behaviors among young people and students, who serve as role models for other societal segments, understanding their awareness and attitudes can significantly influence public health focus. Assessing students' awareness and related factors regarding food hygiene is crucial. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the awareness, attitude, and performance of medical students at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences concerning health and food safety. Methods: This study involved 140 medical students from Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software version 22, employing independent t-tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The study found that the average scores for awareness, attitude, and performance of medical students in the field of health and food safety were 25.05 (moderate awareness), 34.45 (poor attitude), and 25.52 (moderate performance), respectively. The students' attitude level was lower than their awareness and performance levels. There was a significant relationship between the level of awareness and educational level (P = 0.006), the level of attitude and educational level (P = 0.041), and the level of attitude and age (P = 0.015). Conclusions: This study revealed that despite a relatively high level of awareness regarding food hygiene and safety among students, a change in attitude did not necessarily translate into a change in practice.