Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitudes toward Nutrigenomics among University Students in India: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Nutrigenomics examines the relationships between food bioactives and the human genome, facilitating a shift towards precision nutrition and the prevention of chronic diseases. Notwithstanding its clinical possibility, the incorporation of genetic literacy into educational and professional domains remains insufficiently examined. This study assessed the knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards nutrigenomics among our varied population of university students. Moreover, it clarified prevalent misconceptions about the scope and scientific rigor of nutrigenomics by emphasizing that it is a multidisciplinary domain firmly grounded in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry, rather than simply a food trend. Enhancing awareness via scientific education, evidence-based research, seminars, and effective public communication may improve knowledge of the impact of nutrients on gene expression, metabolism, and disease prevention, thereby strengthening the connection between nutrigenomics and molecular biology in personalized nutrition and precision healthcare. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was performed at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, with a sample size of N = 95 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Data were obtained via a standardized structured questionnaire examining three domains: knowledge of nutrigenomics, awareness of clinical application and perception of customized nutrition plans. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0, incorporating descriptive statistics for baseline data, the Mann-Whitney U test for group comparisons and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient to assess inter-variable correlation. Results: An elevated level of basic literacy was noted, with 92.6% of participants exhibiting a strong comprehension of gene nutrition mechanisms. However, a significant conceptual gap was identified: 20% of respondents falsely regarded nutrigenomics as a intervention for diseased populations rather than a preventive measure. While knowledge scores remain consistent across gender and academic disciplines (p > 0.05), Attitudinal scores exhibited significant positive correlations with age (r s = 0.271, p = 0.008) and academic progression (r s = 0.325, p = 0.001). Overall, 69.5% of the cohort maintained positive attitudes toward the societal and clinical adoption of genomic-based dietary interventions. Conclusions: The findings suggest that while basic genomic literacy is prevalent, targeted pedagogical interventions are required to address misconceptions regarding the scope of neutral genomic strength in the Nexus between molecular biology and clinical dietetics within higher education curriculum is essential for the future implementation of personalized healthcare framework in India.