Assessment of calcium-related knowledge and daily calcium intake among the adult population of Uvs province

Abstract

Background: In Mongolia, the prevalence of osteoporosis is showing an increasing trend, with Uvs province exhibiting particularly high rates. International studies have primarily focused on calcium intake in adolescents, women during and after menopause, while there is a pressing need for comprehensive baseline research that includes all age groups regardless of gender. Aim: To assess the knowledge and dietary calcium intake among residents aged 18 and above in Uvs province, and to investigate the correlation between calcium knowledge and intake. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 330 individuals aged 18 years and older who visited the Uvs Province General Hospital. The daily calcium intake was assessed using the Food Frequency Questionnaire developed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: A total of 330 participants were included, with a mean age of 44.39 ± 3.93 years. Among them, 33% (n=109) were male and 67% (n=221) were female. Regarding knowledge of calcium, 43% of respondents had low knowledge, 22% had moderate knowledge, and 35% had high knowledge. Concerning daily dietary calcium intake, 43% had a very low intake (<500 mg), 19% had inadequate intake (500–1000 mg), and 38% had adequate intake (>1000 mg). Statistically significant associations were found between calcium knowledge level and gender, education level, calcium supplements, and vitamin D usage (p=0.001). No statistically significant difference was observed between daily calcium intake and the level of knowledge regarding calcium (p = 0.131). Conclusions: 1. Among the study participants, 43% had a low level of knowledge about calcium, 22% had a moderate level, and 35% had a high level. 2. Regarding daily dietary calcium intake, 43% of participants had a very low intake, 19% had an insufÏcient intake, and 38% had an adequate intake. 3. Factors such as gender, educational level, and the use of calcium supplements and vitamin D were found to influence the participants’ level of knowledge about calcium. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a broader evaluation of calcium intake among the general population, accurately determine calcium consumption, and develop health education programs and recommendations.