Chereches, M.C.; Finta, H.; Popa, C.O.; Stefanescu, D.; Muntean, D.-L. Qualitative Study on the Factors Influencing the Utilisation of Products Labelled “Food for Special Medicinal Use” (FSMP). Nutrients2023, 15, 2582.
Chereches, M.C.; Finta, H.; Popa, C.O.; Stefanescu, D.; Muntean, D.-L. Qualitative Study on the Factors Influencing the Utilisation of Products Labelled “Food for Special Medicinal Use” (FSMP). Nutrients 2023, 15, 2582.
Chereches, M.C.; Finta, H.; Popa, C.O.; Stefanescu, D.; Muntean, D.-L. Qualitative Study on the Factors Influencing the Utilisation of Products Labelled “Food for Special Medicinal Use” (FSMP). Nutrients2023, 15, 2582.
Chereches, M.C.; Finta, H.; Popa, C.O.; Stefanescu, D.; Muntean, D.-L. Qualitative Study on the Factors Influencing the Utilisation of Products Labelled “Food for Special Medicinal Use” (FSMP). Nutrients 2023, 15, 2582.
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate Romanian physicians' awareness, recommendation practices, and opinions regarding using Foods for Special Medical Purposes (FSMPs) products. A total of ten physicians were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, and their responses were analysed using thematic content analysis. The study found that physicians were aware of FSMPs and recommended them to their patients based on nutritional deficits, weight loss, or deglutition impairments. In addition, disease stage, treatment scheme, taste, affordability, and availability were identified as factors influencing the recommendation and use of FSMPs. While physicians generally did not consult clinical trials, clinical experience was deemed essential for recommending FSMPs to patients. Patients' feedback regarding the usage and sourcing of FSMPs was generally positive, with some expressing concerns about the availability of different flavours and the costs of purchasing the products. The study concludes that physicians play a vital role in recommending FSMPs to patients and ensuring they have the necessary nutritional support during treatment. However, more patient education materials and collaboration with nutritionists may be required to improve patient outcomes and reduce patient financial burden.
Keywords
food for special medical purposes; FSMP; qualitative research; nutritional needs for oncology patients
Subject
Biology and Life Sciences, Food Science and Technology
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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