MS, Kent State University, 2017, College of Education, Health and Human Services / School of Health Sciences

Nutrigenomics is a rapidly developing field of study involving the relationship between genetics and nutrition. Multiple companies are now offering personalized dietary advice based on the results of genetic testing. College students, who are educated and more familiar with new technology may provide valuable information about perceptions toward nutrigenomic technology while it is still in its early stages of development. The purpose of this study was to examine the knowledge and perception of college students toward genetic testing for personalized nutrition. Participants in this study were college students from Kent State University who completed an online survey administered through Qualtrics. The survey assessed perception toward nutrigenomics along with basic genetics knowledge. Analysis of the data revealed a general lack of genetics knowledge among college students. In addition, only 25% of participants had ever heard or read about nutrigenomic testing. The overall perception toward these developments was more positive than negative. There were significant differences in genetics knowledge and perception of nutrigenomics among various class ranks and majors. In addition, findings indicate a significant relationship between participation in college level nutrition and/or genetics courses, higher genetics knowledge and more positive perceptions toward nutrigenomics. Individuals who scored higher on the genetics knowledge assessment also displayed a more positive perception toward nutrigenomics. More research is needed to understand how college students perceive nutrigenomics and what factors affect their attitude toward these scientific developments. Future studies with a valid and reliable questionnaire are needed to confirm the findings of this study.

Committee: Eun-Jeong (Angie) Ha PhD (Advisor); Natalie Caine-Bish PhD, RD, LD (Committee Member); Nancy Burzminksi PhD, RD, LD (Committee Member) Subjects: Behavioral Sciences; Biochemistry; Biology; Education; Ethics; Food Science; Genetics; Health; Health Care; Health Education; Health Sciences; Medicine; Nutrition; Public Health Education; Science Education