A study on knowledge and practices regarding micronutrients in females of an urban mixed community

Macronutrients and micronutrients are essential components of the diet. On one hand, where most people usually pay considerable attention to include macronutrients in the diet, knowledge on micronutrients and practices seems lacking. This study aims to decipher the knowledge and practices related to micronutrients in females of a community which consists of various domicile backgrounds (mixed community).

Data on knowledge and practices regarding micronutrients were collected from 602 female participants through door-to-door interview using a semi-structured questionnaire incorporated with a scoring system. The practices were observed at their home by the interviewers.

The overall mean score was 1.90, which reflected an overall inadequacy in knowledge on micronutrients. Proportion of participants having adequate knowledge on sources (scoring >50%) was lowest for vitamin B12 (6.65%), followed by folic acid (9.14%), vitamin A (16.45%), iron (25.25%), and vitamin D (26.91%). Proportions of participants who had basic knowledge on the effects of micronutrient deficiency were also low, with the lowest for vitamin D (16.45%) followed by vitamin B12/vitamin C/folic acid (19.77%), and iron (33.06%). A significant association between years of academic education and mean scores of knowledge was found. Practices were significantly associated with mean knowledge scores.

There is a considerable lack of awareness of micronutrients. Dietary practices are inadequate when related to recommended daily intakes, mostly due to lack of knowledge on sources and importance of micronutrients. It is necessary to conduct more activities regarding information, education, and communication in this regard, with special modules focusing on micronutrients.