Knowledge and Awareness Level ofVitamin D Deficiency and its Effect on theLower Jaw in Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is a prevalent public health issue in Saudi Arabia and is increasingly
recognized for its role in skeletal and oral health, including effects on the lower jaw. This study aimed to assess the
level of knowledge and awareness regarding VDD and its impact on the lower jaw among adults in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 380 participants. A structured questionnaire
was used to assess demographic characteristics and knowledge related to vitamin D benefits, deficiency, and its
oral health implications. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression.
Results: The mean age of participants was 30.39 ± 10.96 years, with females representing 82.4% of the sample.
Overall, 46.1% demonstrated good knowledge, 29.2% moderate knowledge, and 24.7% poor knowledge, indicating
that 75.3% had adequate awareness. High awareness was observed for general aspects of Vitamin D, such as its
role in bone health (88.2%), calcium absorption (79.5%), and sunlight as a source (96.6%). However, knowledge
regarding its specific effects on oral and lower jaw health was lower, with <50% correctly identifying associations
with gum health and jawbone changes. Chi-square analysis showed a significant association between gender and
knowledge level (P = 0.036), with females demonstrating better knowledge than males. No significant associations
were found with age, education, or income. Logistic regression confirmed that these variables were not significant
predictors of knowledge level. Conclusion: Participants showed adequate knowledge of Vitamin D, particularly its
general health benefits, but exhibited moderate awareness regarding its specific effects on the lower jaw and oral
health. Gender was the only significant factor associated with knowledge level. Targeted educational interventions
are recommended to improve awareness of Vitamin D’s oral health implications in Saudi Arabia.
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