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Publication Type : Journal Article
Publisher : Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Source : The Open Dentistry Journal
Url : https://doi.org/10.2174/0118742106387586250618184635
Campus : Kochi
School : School of Dentistry
Year : 2025
Abstract : 
 Introduction
 Vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting various physiological activities, thus contributing to overall health and well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and behaviour regarding vitamin D levels among dental students in South India.
 
 
 Methods
 A multicentric online survey was conducted among dental students from various dental colleges in South India. Prior informed consent was obtained from all the students. A self-administered questionnaire in English was designed to collect information on demographic characteristics, lifestyle characteristics, knowledge, and awareness of vitamin D levels, as well as vitamin D supplement use.
 
 
 Results
 The final sample consisted of 516 dental students, of whom the majority were female [n=384; 74.4%], and the mean age was 22 years [SD: 1.67]. Most dental students were unaware of their current vitamin D levels [92.4%]. Only 39 dental students reported their current vitamin D levels. Only six of the 39 dental students had vitamin D levels above 30ng/ml. There was no significant difference in the knowledge of current vitamin D levels for sex [p=0.129] and academic year of study among dental students [p=0.197]. There was no significant difference in the distribution of vitamin D status among dental students, regardless of variables such as sex [p=0.24], academic year [p=0.76], application of sunscreen [p=0.129], and clothing or use of an umbrella to avoid sun exposure [p>;0.99].
 
 
 Discussion
 This study highlighted poor knowledge of vitamin D levels among dental students, irrespective of sex and academic year of study, which may be attributed to a general lack of awareness regarding the role of vitamin D in maintaining physiological functions, as well as insufficient emphasis on periodic vitamin D screening.
 
 
 Conclusion
 This study revealed a lack of awareness of vitamin D status among dental students. Among those who had checked their vitamin D levels, a high prevalence of deficiency was observed.

Cite this Research Publication : Abhinav N. Tadikonda, Kalyana C Pentapati, Vijay S Kumar, Nanditha Kumar, Divya Vinayachandran, Narayana Chava, Mithun Pai, Vidya M Saraswathi, Knowledge, Awareness and Behaviour Regarding Vitamin D Levels Among Dental Students in South India: A Cross-sectional Survey, The Open Dentistry Journal, Bentham Science Publishers Ltd., 2025, https://doi.org/10.2174/0118742106387586250618184635