Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to thoroughly assess a broad sample of adult respondents’ levels of awareness, knowledge, and preventive measures about vitamin B12.
Methods: A standardized questionnaire was used to conduct a cross-sectional survey of 226 individuals. Demographic traits, general knowledge of vitamin B12, knowledge of the symptoms and complications of deficiencies, awareness of dietary sources, screening procedures (hemoglobin and vitamin B12 levels), comprehension of normal reference ranges, and interest in educational interventions were all evaluated by the instrument.
Results: Although there was a high general awareness of vitamin B12 (85.84%), there was a significantly lower level of particular functional knowledge. Only 27.88% of participants were aware of the typical reference range for vitamin B12 content, and only 44.69% of individuals were able to properly identify food sources. Just 48.67% had particular vitamin B12 testing, even though 64.16% had undergone hemoglobin testing. Interestingly, 91.59% of participants said they would be very interested in learning more about this subject.
Conclusion: There was a clear “awareness-knowledge gap” whereby widespread awareness of vitamin B12 does not correspond to a practical grasp of dietary needs or health maintenance techniques. A willing audience for focused public health initiatives was indicated by the significant demand for instructional materials.

Key words: Vitamin B12, cobalamin deficiency, health literacy, dietary awareness, screening practices, public health education