Nutrition knowledge of persons with HIV/AIDS who utilize a food assistance program

The purpose of this study was to investigate the subject's knowledge specific to nutrition and HIV/AIDS using a questionnaire. An 11-item test of nutrition information specific to HIV/AIDS was used to assess knowledge. Additionally, questions were asked related to quality of products and services provided by the food assistance program.;For a one-month period, adult clients who "shopped" at the food pantry were asked to complete the questionnaire. All 326 research subjects had a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS. Knowledge scores ranged from 0 to 11 with a mean score of 8.6 +/- 2.1 or 78% correct. The majority of subjects, 267 (85.3%), reported being taught the importance of a high calorie, high protein diet. The information source was reported as doctor by 28.2%, food pantry RD/intern by 19.0%, self by 23.9%, and other 10.1%.;Results of this study demonstrated a range of nutrition knowledge specific to HIV/AIDS in clients using a food assistance program. Dietitians/interns were reported as a source of this information that was rated as very helpful.