Knowledge, attitude and practice of Iraqi mothers towards Vitamin D supplementation to their infants in Baghdad Al -Rusafa 2016

Abstract

Background: Routine supplementation of vitamin D to infants is justifiable since vitamin D deficiency, and its consequences are highly prevalent not only in developing countries but worldwide. Maintaining a normal level of vitamin D is crucial in order to have a normal skeletal, as well as, extra-skeletal health. Knowledge of mothers regarding importance of vitamin D supplementation affect the health of their babies in a positive manner if accompanied by appropriate practice.

Objective: To determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of Iraqi mothers of under or equal 12 months old infants in Baghdad, AL-Rusafa, regarding vitamin D supplementation for their infants.

Type of the study: A cross-sectional study.

Methods: A descriptive cross sectional, questionnaire-based study conducted at six primary health care centers in Baghdad AL-Rusafa. 400 mothers of under or equal 12  months old infants attending primary health care centers (PHCC)for routine vaccination and follow up of their infants were included in the study from the 10^th of February 2016 till the 10^th of June 2016.

Results: A total of 400 mothers enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 27.11years ±6.65572, Only (45%) (n=180) of them had given their infants vitamin D drops, with a mean score of vitamin D supplementation practice of  1.26±1.51265 from 4 which was significantly  correlated with their knowledge score which was 3.6100±2.14987 from 9 and their attitude score which was 3.6275±1.89644 from 6.

Conclusion:  The study revealed poor knowledge, fair attitude and poor practice among mothers regarding vitamin D supple­ment for their infants.