KNOWLEDGE OF YOUNG ADULTS ABOUT NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES AND NEUROPROTECTIVE FOOD.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim: To assess the knowledge of young adults about neurodegenerative diseases and neuroprotective food. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Material and methods: The study was conducted using an anonymous self-constructed questionnaire. 150 people aged 18 - 30 participated in the study, including 69% (n = 104) women and 31% (n = 46) men. RESULTS: Results: Most of the respondents had sufficient or good knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases and neuroprotective nutrition. The obtained results did not depend on gender, place of residence, and age. However, knowledge was influenced by education (p < 0.05; better-educated respondents indicated more correct answers), and the occupation performed (p < 0.05; respondents performing medical professions gave correct answers more often). CONCLUSION: Conclusions: It seems essential to introduce additional school classes in the field of neurodegenerative diseases and neuroprotective nutrition. Only modern nutritional education from an early age can help implement appropriate eating habits in the field of prevention of neurodegenerative diseases and their application in adulthood.