Evaluation of medical students' understanding and implementation of vitamin D and calcium at a tertiary healthcare facility in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine how well-informed the undergraduate medical students of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, were on the importance of calcium and vitamin D. Methods: Using an online self-administered, pre-designed questionnaire distributed from July to August 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted among fellow undergraduate medical students at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Results: A total of 472 undergraduate medical students participated in the study, where number of students in their clinical years was predominant (61.7%; n = 291). Nearly all the students were aware of the significance of vitamin D (99.6%; n = 470) and calcium (99.8%; n = 471) as essential components for body functioning. Their main knowledge sources were doctors (79.9%; n = 377) and social media (77.1%; n = 364). However, their general attitude was inadequate, with female students exhibiting a better attitude towards sunlight exposure and diet, including supplements. Conclusion: The current study showed that undergraduate medical students of both genders at KAU were satisfactorily informed about the significance of calcium and vitamin D. Female students displayed a better attitude, yet the overall attitude was still inadequate. More effort is required to encourage and guide students.