ORIGINAL ARTICLE   

Gazzetta Medica Italiana - Archivio per le Scienze Mediche 2019 March;178(3):132-6

DOI: 10.23736/S0393-3660.18.03747-6

Copyright © 2018 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Awareness of vitamin D deficiency among Cypriot parents

Zeynep CERIT ✉

Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Near East University Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency is more common across all age groups in epidemic proportions. The aim of this study was to evaluate a baseline assessment and create awareness among Cypriot parents regarding vitamin D.
METHODS: A cross-sectional, voluntary survey was conducted among Cypriot parents. Data were collected using a questionnaire which assessed the level of knowledge parents had with regard to where vitamin D comes from, what it does for health, affecting factors its levels. Majority of parents were unaware that vitamin D deficiency has acquired epidemic proportions. Although bone and skeletal disorders as a complication of vitamin D deficiency were known, a large number were unaware of systemic disorders (cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus). Most of the respondents were aware of duration and timing of sun exposure required for adequate serum vitamin D levels.
RESULTS: Our study showed a lack of knowledge about the importance of vitamin D deficiency prevalence among cypriot parents.
CONCLUSIONS: Encouraging of vitamin D health awareness, reached all parents, could result in positive health outcomes worldwide.

KEY WORDS: Vitamin D deficiency - Parents - Awareness - Health promotion