Background: Vitamin D deficiency is still epidemic and it represents a global health concern. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with several diseases including bone diseases, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer disease, alopecia and obesity. The deficiency of vitamin D is rising in Saudi Arabia. The presence of sufficient knowledge about this problem may lead to decrease in its prevalence. The aim of the current study was to assess the knowledge and practice of adult population regarding vitamin D deficiency and risk of hair loss.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Majmaah city and surrounding villages, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. ParticipantsÂ’ socio-demographic data, skin color, knowledge and practice of vitamin D deficiency and risk of hair loss were investigated using a pre-tested electronic questionnaire.
Results: Majority (80.5%) of the participants knew about vitamin D and the main source of knowledge was media (27.9%). Of the respondents, 17% believed that there was a relationship between vitamin D deficiency and hair loss. Among the participants, 49.6%, 49.9% and 0.3% reported poor, fair and good knowledge about vitamin D deficiency; respectively. While 46.9%, 47.4%, and 5.7% had poor, fair and good practice toward vitamin D deficiency; respectively.
Conclusion: There was a lack of knowledge and poor practice regarding vitamin D deficiency.
Key words: Knowledge, Practice, Vitamin D deficiency, alopecia, Majmaah.
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