Factors Associated with Vitamin B12 Deficiency in the West Bank of Palestine and Gaza

Introduction: Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin involved in many biological functions. The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency is high among Middle Eastern and North African Region. However, data on its deficiency in Palestine are lacking. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among the Palestinian population and identify associated socio-demographic and clinical risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between Sept ember 2024 and January 2025 among adults from the West Bank and Gaza Strip of the occupied Palestine. Data were collected from 700 randomized participants using a validated structured Arabic questionnaire distributed online. The questionnaire covered demographic details, medical history, dietary habits, and medication use. Associations between variables and vitamin B12 deficiency were examined using chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis. Results: The overall prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was found to be 45%. Significant associations (P < 0.05) were found between vitamin B12 deficiency and age (especially 40–50 years), female gender, employment status, chronic diseases including diabetes, H. pylori infection, and the use of medications such as proton pump inhibitors and metformin. Conclusions: The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency is high which can be considered as a major public health concern in Palestine. Our findings indicate that there is an emergent need for targeted health strategies to prevent vitamin B12 related complications in Palestine.

Keywords: Vitamin B12, Palestine, medication, H.Pylori

عنوان المؤتمر

مؤتمر العلوم الصحية لجامعة العلوم التطبيقية بعنوان: "التميّز والتشاركية في الرعاية الصحية"

دولة المؤتمر

الأردن

تاريخ المؤتمر

22 أكتوبر، 2025 - 23 أكتوبر، 2025

راعي المؤتمر

Applied Science University

معلومات إضافية

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