Predictors of Maternal Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Toward Vitamin D Supplements in Saudi Infants and Toddlers.

Abstract

To assess maternal knowledge, attitude, and practices toward vitamin D supplements in Saudi infants and toddlers. In addition, we investigated predictors of maternal knowledge, attitude, and practices related to vitamin D supplements. Cross-sectional data of 156 Saudi infants and toddlers were collected from mothers via online survey. Data collected included sociodemographics, maternal knowledge, attitude, and practices toward vitamin D supplements. Our data show a limited maternal knowledge toward vitamin D. Maternal knowledge and attitude as well as maternal knowledge and practices were not correlated. Spearman correlation between maternal attitude and practices was positively low (rs= 0.47). Child's age and family monthly income predicted maternal knowledge towards vitamin D. Maternal age and maternal education level predicted maternal attitude toward vitamin D supplements. Order of the child, maternal age, and maternal employment status predicted maternal practices toward vitamin D supplements in infant and toddlers. Maternal knowledge, attitude, and practices toward vitamin D supplements can be predicted by certain sociodemographic characteristics. Interventions that focus on improving maternal knowledge, attitude, and practices toward vitamin D supplements are urgently needed.