Dietary Education via Teacher–Diabetologist Cooperation

A workforce shortage due to a never before experienced super aged society is coming to Japan. At present, the major producers of society (40-year-olds) are suffering from an increasing incidence of diabetes. Dietary education to S is most important in helping the future labor force develop precautions against life-related diseases before entering the labor force. Student lessons focusing on sugar totals, how to calculate sugar amounts included in beverages, in addition to information on diabetic complications were provided. Problems that occur following severely reduced food intake were also covered. A D provided dietary education to 1100 junior high and high school S on disease development for 3 years in 3 schools. Surveys show, prior to lectures, over 60% of S were aware of health considerations. However, the decision to eat breakfast was not based on the S’ decision. Some breakfast content was inappropriate due to incomplete knowledge. 50%+ were aware of a health to diet link. Of most interest to S was the amount of sugar contained in sugary drinks. After, many refrained from ingestion of these. Surveys found S who had the lesson twice developed their own decision-making ability. 93.7% of S appreciated the knowledge and were pleased to receive knowledge about food intake before suffering disease. They understood why parents said not to take a lot of sugar. 50.1% reviewed food habits, and 82.4% were willing to improve dietary habits. Some students realized they must take personal responsibility for health. 19.3% indicated sharing, or were willing to share, this knowledge with others. Some S asked D to advise other S. It is important after receiving education and tracing from Ds that T become the primary interface with S in the passing on of dietary knowledge and advice. T can more consistently pass on this knowledge on an ongoing basis with a view to putting using the knowledge themselves to personal practical use, and then transferring the skills to future generations. D: diabetologist, T: teachers. S: students. This is a follow-up report.