Abstract
BACKGROUND: There is a conspicuous lack of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) studies directed towards understanding the impact of diet on pregnancy among infertile individuals. Dietary habits can have a certain impact on infertility. To investigates the KAP of infertile individuals regarding the influence of diet on pregnancy. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to January 2024 in Beijing, China. A structured questionnaire based on comprehensive literature review and validated by expert consultation was administered to gather demographic information, as well as to assess KAP among individuals experiencing infertility. The Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.897, indicating high internal consistency. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, logistic regression, and structural equation modeling. RESULTS: A total of 580 participants were included in this study. Of these, 494 individuals (85.17%) were identified as female, while 325 participants (56.03%) reported experiencing infertility for a duration spanning 0 to 3 years. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 27.04 ± 9.80 (possible range: 0-46), 21.84 ± 3.24 (possible range: 5-25), and 25.69 ± 4.07 (possible range: 9-45), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression showed that attitude score and aged more than 40 years were independently associated with proactive practice. The structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis revealed a significant direct influence of knowledge on both attitude and practice. DISCUSSION: Given the identified gaps in knowledge and practice, healthcare providers should prioritize educational interventions targeting infertile individuals, particularly focusing on enhancing awareness and promoting proactive dietary practices to improve pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSION: Infertile individuals demonstrated insufficient knowledge, positive attitudes, and passive practices regarding the impact of diet on pregnancy. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: 2022PHB405-001.