Pattern of fish consumption in the food table of households in Hormozgan province

Abstract

Introduction : Fish intake is known as a healthy dietary habit that can reduce cardiovascular risk factors, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cerebrovascular risks. Considering the geographical location of Hormozgan province as a costal area, current study was designed to assess the intake of this omega3-rich food item in towns, districts, and villages of Hormozgan Province. Methods : In this descriptive-analytical and cross-sectional study, samples were selected according to the multistage random cluster sampling method. Data were collected by a researcher-made questionnaire containing demographic and fish intake variables. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results : In total, 5074 people from Hormozgan province who were older than 18 years participated in the study. Out of which, 41% were male, 85.2% were married, and 29.8% were illiterate. Participants from Jask and Bandar lenge had the highest and Hajiabad had the lowest fish intake. In addition, 64.9% of urban and 76.8% of the rural population in Hormozgan Province had fish intake more than twice a week. This study showed a statistically significant relationship between fish consumption and residence place, level of education, monthly income, marital status, occupation, and age. Conclusion : Regarding the role of fish intake in community health and low fish intake in educated individuals, young people, and those with specialized jobs in Hormozgan province, it is necessary to conduct applied research to identify the fish consumption associated factors and to design effective interventions to increase fish consumption in the studied population.