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Knowledge, attitude, and practices towards vitamin D deficiency in diabetic patients and non-diabetic individuals

Fro Kawa Mohammed Rashid
Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Wali Omar Abdulrahman
Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
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Copyright (c) 2026 Fro Kawa Mohammed Rashid, Wali Omar Abdulrahman (Author)

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Abstract

Background and objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, while vitamin D deficiency is a growing public health concern. Although vitamin D levels are linked to obesity and insulin resistance, limited research exists on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) surrounding vitamin D deficiency in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Erbil from September 2024 to July 2025, involving 394 participants — 195 diabetics and 199 non-diabetics — recruited from hospitals and clinics. Data were collected using a structured, validated KAP questionnaire. Convenience sampling was used to ensure representation from both groups. Participants gave verbal consent, and ethical approval was obtained.

Results: A total of 394 participants (195 diabetics, 199 non-diabetics) took part in the study. The mean age of diabetics was 48.9 years, while non-diabetics had a mean age of 40.6 years. Vitamin D deficiency was reported by 61% of diabetics and 59.3% of non-diabetics. Non-diabetics reported higher vitamin D supplement use (66.3%) than diabetics (60%). Both groups exhibited similar behaviors regarding sun exposure and physical activity, with the majority undergoing vitamin D screening every six months (72.3% diabetics, 71.4% non-diabetics). Women made more vitamin D knowledge and lifestyle adjustments than men (27.63 vs. 24.95, p=0.015). Higher socioeconomic status and education levels increased awareness and lifestyle adjustments; non-diabetics with high SES had a mean knowledge score of 31.13 compared with 21.87 for low SES, whereas diabetics had 32.55 compared with 25.00 (p=0.001).

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is common among adults with and without diabetes in Erbil. Non-diabetics are more likely to use supplements, while gender, education, and socioeconomic status significantly influence awareness and health behaviors. Targeted educational interventions are recommended to address these disparities.

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How to Cite
Kawa Mohammed Rashid, F. ., & Omar Abdulrahman, W. . (2026). Knowledge, attitude, and practices towards vitamin D deficiency in diabetic patients and non-diabetic individuals. Zanco Journal of Medical Sciences (ZJMS), 710–721. https://doi.org/10.15218/zjms.2026.050

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