The Association Between Knowledge, Perception, and Attitudes Towards Vitamin D and Hypovitaminosis D: A Cross-Sectional Study Conducted Among Saudi Women.

Abstract

Background Saudi Arabia, although it is a sunny country, has a very high rate of vitamin D deficiency, especially among females more than males. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with hypovitaminosis D among these women in order to develop effective strategies for the prevention and management of this serious health issue. Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 384 Saudi females in Jeddah. Participants completed an online questionnaire over six weeks, covering demographics, vitamin D knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions of supplementation and fortified foods. The questionnaire was translated into Arabic version and then underwent a validation process using a back-translation method. Results The study showed that Saudi females in Jeddah had satisfactory knowledge about vitamin D, as indicated by a significantly high knowledge score. This knowledge was greater in middle-aged women (p-value 0.0369) and people with a middle income (p-value 0.0137), and it was fully independent of education level. In addition, individuals showed positive perceptions regarding vitamin D supplements and fortified foods. However, there were negative attitudestoward sun exposure, vitamin D food consumption, and getting vitamin D levels evaluated. Conclusion Our study found that Saudi females in Jeddah had satisfactory vitamin D knowledge, especially middle-aged women. However, there were negative attitudes toward sun exposure, vitamin D food consumption, and getting vitamin D levels evaluated. To address these concerns, healthcare professionals can play a crucial role by educating patients on the importance of vitamin D testing, dispelling myths about sun exposure, and emphasizing the benefits of vitamin D-rich diets.