Evaluation of the effect of chain training methods on improvement of household awareness and attitude toward healthy nutrition

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are one of the major causative factors of morbidity and mortality in the world which can be easily prevented through lifestyle changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of chain training methods on increasing household awareness on and attitude toward healthy nutrition in order to prevent CVD. METHODS: This study was performed as a community trial. For the purpose of this study, 4 areas were selected and 4 educational methods were conducted in these areas. The participants were told to share their information with their neighbors and relatives in that area (chain training). Primary knowledge of the residents of these areas before and after the intervention were evaluated in a randomly selected sample (n = 400). Data were analyzed using independent t-test, chi-square, and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: Pre-intervention and post-intervention mean of knowledge were 16.42 (± 3.5) and 16.4 (± 3.6), respectively (P = 0.025). Pre-intervention and post-intervention mean of knowledge did not differ in area 1, 2, and 4. A statistically significant increase in knowledge was only observed in area 3 (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The use of chain training method by non-governmental organization (NGOs) may not be effective in increasing awareness on healthy lifestyle. Therefore, training through public classes and direct education by health personnel is recommended.