A need for improvement in the knowledge, attitudes and practice toward vitamin d among university students

الملخص EN

Objective : The message delivered to the public regarding vitamin D is unclear, and contradictory ; particularly regarding sun exposure ; previous studies in Jordan have revealed high prevalence of low vitamin D among university students.

The aim of this study was to investigate university students' knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding vitamin D.

Design : A web-based cross-sectional survey Setting : The survey was completed by students at a Jordanian university in 2019.

Method : The survey collected sample characteristics data and information about university students' knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward vitamin D.

The x2 test was used to assess the associations between the sample characteristics and their vitamin D knowledge and practices and to evaluate the association between participants' knowledge and practices.

Binary logistic regression analysis was used to predict supplement use.

Results : 496 students completed the questionnaire.

The mean knowledge score was 31.3 ( 11.3) out of 100.

Women had significantly higher beliefs that vitamin D deficiency is an escalating health issue (p<0.01).

Negative practices regarding sun exposure were significantly higher in women than men (p<0.01).

The majority of participants recognized that insufficient sun exposure was a cause of vitamin D deficiency, but 50.7 % avoid sun exposure, and 67.6% expose only their face and hands.

The consumption of fortified foods (OR 3.59; p<0.001) was the only studied variable associated with vitamin D consumption.

Conclusion : There is a gap between knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding vitamin D which can be bridged by promoting Vitamin D related awareness.