Knowledge of Sugars Consumption and the WHO Sugars Guideline among Canadian Dietitians and Other Health Professionals

Purpose: The objective was to assess knowledge related to sugars consumption and World Health Organization (WHO) sugars guideline among Canadian dietitians and other health professionals. Methods: A multiple-choice style survey was administered at Dietitians of Canada and Canadian Diabetes Association conferences in 2014. Results: The study showed that only 12% of the surveyed respondents (n = 335) in 2014 were able to correctly identify the amount of added sugars consumed by Canadians, whereas two-thirds overestimated this amount. About 10% of the respondents knew that the 10% guideline by WHO for free sugars was based on evidence related to dental caries. Registered dietitians had relatively better knowledge of Canadian sugars consumption (P = 0.003), but not of the WHO free sugars guideline compared with other surveyed health professionals such as medical doctors or nurses. Conclusions: Knowledge gaps existed among surveyed Canadian health professionals on topics related to sugars consumption and the WHO sugars guideline. Future research should focus on tools to support better communication of sugars guideline and consistent use of sugars terminology.

CM Tools and Pearls: The Canadian Diabetes Association 2013 Clinical Practice Guidelines

Diabetes is common in Canada, and over the last decade, the incidence of diabetes has grown rapidly. The Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) released the 2013 Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Diabetes in Canada (CPGs) in April 2013. These internationally recognized guidelines provide recommendations on screening, prevention, diagnosis, education, and management of diabetes. This article summarizes four key messages in diabetes care, including diagnosis, glucose lowering, vascular protection, and organization of care. Information on how to access the CDA’s interactive online and mobile applications is also provided.