Development of an on‐line survey to assess training needs in nutritional genomics

Nutritional genomics is the study of how genetic differences may affect responses to nutrients or other naturally occurring compounds in the foods we eat. This emerging field has received much attention recently because of its potential for preventing, mitigating, or treating chronic disease and certain cancers through dietary change and its increasing incorporation into the practice of dietetics. The objective of this research project is to develop a web‐based survey to assess training needs of nutrition professionals and trainees. Participants included registered dietitians and dietetic interns recruited from the greater San Francisco bay area, 2 teaching hospitals and 3 internship programs. Four focus groups and 18 individual interviews were conducted to pilot test the survey questions which probed exposure, perceptions and knowledge related to nutritional genomics. Input was sought on the best approaches and tools for training. Results provided constructive input on survey design and preliminary information on training interests and needs. The on‐line training needs assessment survey will provide valuable data for guiding the development of tools that can be broadly used for training in nutritional genomics. This research was supported by a CCLS‐mini‐grant from San Francisco State University.