Diet-related chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular and renal diseases affected millions of individuals, resulting in disease-related complications such as stroke and heart attack. Evidence strongly supports the fact that multiple dietary factors influence this diseases and the modification of diet can have powerful, beneficial effects in prevention and management but in most cases, the modification of diet results after the disease is installed. Because of their interaction with patients, the nurse’s role in preventive care includes observing the many factors that contribute to chronic conditions. The aim was to assess the patients with chronic diseases regarding their diet before – after the installation of the diseases. The study took place in Vlore Regional Hospital Albania, Pathology ward in May 2018, duration two weeks. The sample was composed of 12 patients. The study data collected by a questionnaire which includes general and nutritional information. The Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated in the base of the patient's height and weight. Mean age 67.25 years, SD±5.64.
Most prevalent diseases were diabetes mellitus (25%), hypertension (25%), cardiovascular and renal diseases (35%), hepatic cirrhosis (8.33%). 50% of patients were overweight BMI interval [25.00-29.99] and 17% were obese in I category, BMI interval [35.0-40.00]. All patients reported that their diets changed after hospitalization. Diets modifications included no consumption of fats, salt and to quit smoking and alcohol consumption. 
Results suggest that prevention is crucial in the treatment of the chronic conditions and the nurse’s role is vital in helping patients by educating them on risks and promoting healthy lifestyles.

THE ROLE OF NURSES IN DIET-RELATED CHRONIC DISEASES- FUTURE PERSPECTIVES