Levels of 25-OH vitamin D in healthy asymptomatic adults: pilot study

ABSTRACT

The deficiency of Vitamin-D has been reported in all age groups in developing countries; in spite of adequate sun light required for the production of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. To determine the levels of vitamin D among healthy asymptomatic adults. Hospital based analytical study, conducted at Sheikh Zayed Medical Complex, Lahore. Healthy subjects between 40-60 years, who were either the staff of the hospital or attendants of the patients were included. Those who were taking vitamin supplement, using sun screen and lactating mothers were excluded. A proforma including the demographic information, exposure to sun, diet intake and BMI was recorded for all subjects. 5cc of blood was taken from all, serum separated, stored at -20[degree sign]C. 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were done within 48 hours using ELISA method. A value between 75-250 nmol/L was taken as normal using international standards. Eighty healthy adults were enrolled whose mean age was 47.2 +/- 6.3 years. The levels of vitamin D ranged between 13.1- 77.5 nmol/L. Levels were deficient in 25% subjects and insufficient in 73.7% giving an overall low level in 98.7% of the respondents. Only 1.3% had sufficient 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. The levels did not show any significant difference between genders, skin pigment or dietary intake. The levels for the 56-60 yrs age group were significantly higher when compared with those in the age groups of 40-45 yrs and 46-50 yrs [p<0.041 and 0.038 respectively]. The association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D with exposure to sunlight was significant [p<0.001]. Respondents with BMI >30 had significantly lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels than those who had BMI between 18-25 [p<0.036]. Low levels of vitamin D were found in 98% of the apparently healthy population