Educational Intervention Based on Protection Motivation Theory to Improve Vitamin E and C Consumption among Iranian Factory Workers

摘要

Various studies have suggested the protective role of antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and E against toxic injury and disease resulting from toxic metals. Thus, studying the antioxidant vitamins consumption behaviour, particularly in high-risk groups such as factory workers with high exposure to toxic metals is emphasised.Aim: This study examined the effects of educational interventions based on the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) among cement factory workers after intervention and six months of follow-up.Materials and Methods: Cement factory workers were randomly assigned into three groups: indirect (n=70), face-to-face (n=70) and control (n=70). The content of face-to-face interventions included multimodal lectures with powerpoint presentations, discussion, questions and answers, individual counselling sessions, and educational pamphlets and booklets. The indirect group received recently designed educational content through pamphlets and booklets. Workers completed PMT questionnaire and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) at baseline, post-intervention, and at the six-month follow-up.Results: Results showed significant positive changes on all PMT constructs, knowledge, and vitamins E and C consumption in both intervention groups at immediate post-intervention and at six month follow-up. Knowledge and intention remained higher in face-to-face groups than in indirect group and higher maintenance was also observed in relation to vitamins and C consumption in the face-to-face group.Conclusion: Findings of this study indicated the PMT intervention, particularly face-to-face intervention, is sound and can be performed for other protective dietary behaviours, such as other antioxidants consumption.