Knowledge, Attitude and Perceptions of the Population Towards Vitamin D in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

In a cross-sectional study of 880 subjects in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, it was found that 42.4% consumed Vitamin D supplements, predominantly females (70.8%), with no correlation to education level but a significant relationship to lighter skin types and exposure to information from media, friends, family, or health professionals. Participants demonstrated good knowledge about Vitamin D, including its presence in fortified foods, nuts, dairy products, and the importance of sun exposure for its synthesis. They were aware of Vitamin D's role in preventing rickets and promoting hair growth but showed a lack of knowledge regarding the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for Vitamin D. There was also a significant association between taking Vitamin D supplements and wearing sunscreen. Despite good knowledge, there was an inconsistency between knowledge and attitude towards improving Vitamin D levels, highlighting the need for better awareness and specific guidelines on sun exposure and food fortification in Saudi Arabia.