October 17, 1996
(Health)

Nutrition Survey Enters Second Phase

A nutrition survey profiling the dietary practices of residents of the province is now in the second phase said Health Minister Lloyd Matthews. The project will help government and health agencies develop nutrition programs that help reduce heart disease and cancer.

In the spring of this year during the first phase of the project, various residents of the province were interviewed about their dietary habits and asked to complete diet and health questionnaires. The surveys were conducted between May and July.

Recognizing that dietary habits change throughout the year, interviewers have resumed collecting data and will continue through until Christmas. "There are different eating patterns throughout the year and we want to ensure we have comprehensive data that will consider eating patterns and practices throughout the year," said the minister. This is the first nutrition survey to be conducted throughout Newfoundland and Labrador in more than 30 years.

The nutrition survey involves detailed interviews and questionnaires of some 2,000 residents throughout the province. Individuals between the ages of 18 and 74 are randomly selected to participate in the survey. Participation is voluntary and no one will be identified by name.

"The data collected will enable health groups to identify various dietary habits, determine the health risks associated with particular patterns and implement programs that address problem areas," said Mr. Matthews. "The end goal of this survey is prevention of heart disease and cancer."

This project is a joint venture between Health Canada, the Department of Health, Memorial University, the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre and the Newfoundland and Labrador Heart Health Program. Dr. Barbara Roebothan of Memorial University is the principal investigator for the survey.

Contact: Nutrition Newfoundland and Labrador, Memorial University (709) 737-8068.