International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · 4 authors, 3 centres
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This cross-sectional study found that only 5% of Czech pregnant women had satisfactory nutritional knowledge, with education level being a significant predictor. A key limitation is the overrepresentation of university-educated women, which may limit generalizability.
Maternal nutrition is critical for fetal health, but data on nutritional knowledge in Czech pregnant women is lacking. This study aimed to assess nutritional knowledge and literacy. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted in April-June 2022 among 401 pregnant women in their third trimester from Prague and Pilsen. A 40-item questionnaire tested knowledge on micronutrients, macronutrients, recommendations, supplements, and food safety. Key Results: Only 5% of women achieved a satisfactory knowledge score (>80%). Low knowledge was observed in areas such as mercury in fish, iron absorption, energy intake, weight gain, vitamins A and D, and folic acid. Significant factors influencing knowledge included education level (p<0.001), city (p<0.001), pregnancy order (p=0.041), BMI (p=0.024), and presence of noncommunicable diseases (p=0.044). University-educated women had higher scores. Limitations: The sample had a high proportion of university-educated women (57.4%), which may limit generalizability. The study was limited to large cities, and the questionnaire's scope and difficulty could affect results. Implications: The findings highlight the need for improved nutritional education and policy interventions to enhance knowledge among pregnant women, particularly in areas with low knowledge. Healthcare providers should be better prepared to offer nutritional counseling.
