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Perceived Familial Risk, Dietary Beliefs, and Self-Reported Family Dietary Changes Among Unaffected First-Degree Relatives of Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Mixed Methods Study in Greece

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Although the exact etiology of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) is not yet fully understood, recent evidence suggests that both genetic and dietary factors are involved in their pathogenesis. The aim of the present exploratory study was to investigate how first-degree relatives (FDRs) of individuals with IBD perceive genetic risk and the role of diet in IBD prevention. Methods: A mixed methods approach was followed. A total of 103 unaffected FDRs of individuals living with IBD in Greece participated in an online questionnaire examining demographic characteristics, disease-related knowledge, risk perception, and beliefs about the role of diet in IBD onset and prevention. Through 16 semi-structured interviews, the beliefs of unaffected FDRs, their dietary practices and the factors affecting those practices for IBD prevention were investigated using Framework analysis guided by the Health Belief Model. Results: Quantitative findings showed that perceived importance of diet was the strongest predictor of dietary change, while genetic beliefs were associated with reduced preventive behaviors despite professional consultation. Qualitative findings provided a deeper understanding of participants’ beliefs, highlighting that diet was mainly viewed as relevant to IBD management rather than prevention. Fear of disease onset and healthcare professional guidance were perceived as key facilitators of dietary changes. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the need for individualized dietary counselling and improved risk communication, to enhance implementation of preventive dietary practices and bridge the gap between knowledge and behavior in IBD prevention.

Source: Gastroenterology Insights

DOI: 10.3390/gastroent17030046