# Assessment of Patient Knowledge and Potential Screening Gaps in Vitamin B12 Deficiency

## TL;DR

This study finds that many people with vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms are not being tested, highlighting a need for better awareness and screening.

## Contribution

The study reveals significant gaps in patient knowledge and screening practices for vitamin B12 deficiency.

## Key findings

- Less than 25% of symptomatic participants had been tested for B12 deficiency in the past year.
- Most participants with autoimmune conditions reported more symptoms compared to others.
- Over half of participants had low confidence in their understanding of B12 deficiency.

## Abstract

Introduction

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that functions as a coenzyme in the nervous system and is critical for the synthesis of myelin and neurotransmitters. Vitamin B12 deficiency disrupts these processes and is associated with significant neurological impairment. Our study aimed to evaluate patient awareness of vitamin B12 deficiency and perceived health risks, as well as to identify potential gaps in its screening.

Methods

The study was conducted using an anonymous 11-item questionnaire distributed to clinics throughout Alabama and Florida, as well as circulated on various social media platforms. The survey analyzed participants' symptoms, risk factors, knowledge, and perceived importance of B12 deficiency.

Results

Less than a quarter of symptomatic respondents had undergone B12 testing in the past year, with nearly all those tested having a recognized risk factor and only one individual being tested solely based on symptoms. A vast majority of participants reported at least one risk factor for B12 deficiency, with participants with autoimmune conditions reporting nearly twice the number of symptoms as others. Despite moderate concern about B12 deficiency, over half of our participants self-reported low confidence in their understanding of the condition.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the gap between patient symptoms and diagnostic action, as well as a deficit in patient awareness and understanding of B12 deficiency. Symptom-centered screening strategies and improved public awareness are warranted to improve early detection and management of vitamin B12 deficiency.