Vitamin D Deficiency: Knowledge and Practice among Adult Saudi Females

Farida M. Habib¹*, Wjdan  A. Al-Motairi² and Wadaa M. Al-Mutairi²

¹Maternity Health Nursing Department King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences – Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

²Undergraduate Nursing Student, College of Nursing, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences – Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

*corresponding Author E-mail: fmh226@yahoo.com; Tel. No.: +966 1 8011111 Ex. 51205; Cell Phone: +966531430949

Accepted 09 April, 2014

Abstract

This study is to assess the knowledge and practice of Saudi female about vitamin D deficiency.  This study used descriptive designs. Convenience sample of 310 Saudi Females aged 20 and above were included in the study. The sample size was estimated using sample size calculator. Three tools were developed to collect data namely:  Sociodemographic questionnaire, Knowledge assessment tool, Practice Assessment tool. The validity and reliability of the tools were ensured. The participants were aware about the aim of the study. Verbal agreement (consents) was taken before data collection. Data was coded for entry and analysis using SPSS statistical software package version 18. The mean age of the sample was 25.18+ 6.7 years old. About one third (29%) of the sample had correct information about importance of Vitamin D, While only 19% use vitamin D supplement.  Forty six percent of the subjects do not expose themselves to sun daily, while out of those who expose to sun daily 16.6% expose to sun less than 10 minutes. There was a significant positive correlation between knowledge of females and their practices toward prevention of vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.000). Younger females had better knowledge and practice scores as there were negative relationship between age and both knowledge, and practice total scores (p = 0.000, P = 0.014). Knowledge of females to prevent Vitamin D deficiency was insufficient. Age was an indicator for females’ knowledge and practice. More emphasis should be carried out to improve female’s knowledge and practice.

Keywords: vitamin D deficiency, knowledge and practice, Saudi females.