Characteristics of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and its relationship with deprivation in patients with cardiovascular-related conditions

Despite preventing cardiovascular events, adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) is declining globally. This study assessed adherence to the MedDiet and its association with material, social, and health-related deprivation among patients with cardiovascular conditions. Data from 328 patients in a southern Turkish city between December 2022 and August 2023 were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale, and the Deprivation Questionnaire, and analyzed using logistic regression and decision tree analysis. Participants' mean age was 64.0 ± 10.2 years, and 50.6% were women. The mean MedDiet adherence score was 6.37 ± 2.54 (range: 1-12). Longer disease duration was associated with higher adherence in stroke, heart failure, and coronary artery disease, but not hypertension. Male gender (OR = 3.556, 95% CI 2.107-6.000) increased the odds of low MedDiet adherence, whereas older age (OR = 0.957, 95% CI 0.933-0.982) and active effort to follow the diet (OR = 0.538, 95% CI 0.405-0.714) decreased the odds. Decision tree analysis highlighted deprivation as a key factor, with gender and rural residence contributing to disparities. Overall, adherence remains suboptimal, particularly for fish, nuts, and olive oil. Deprived individuals, especially men and rural women, need targeted interventions and policies support for dietary access and secondary prevention.