Vitamin D status in pregnant Omanis. A disturbingly high proportion of patients with low vitamin D stores

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to determine the vitamin D status of pregnant Omanis by measurement of their circulating 25 hydroxy vitamin D levels. Blood samples were obtained from a cohort of 103 consecutive healthy pregnant Omanis at the Armed Forces Hospital, Muscat, on their first antenatal visit. The study took place in May, June and July 2010. Vitamin D deficiency was present in 34 [33%] of patients [25OHD3 <25 nmol/L], 'at risk' levels were found in 67 [65%] patients [25OHD3 25-50 nmol/L]; two patients [1.9%] had values between 50 and 75 nmol/L, and no patients in the optimal range >75 nmol/L. If confirmed, these findings indicate the need for vitamin D replacement during pregnancy and lactation. Although not evidence based we recommend at least 1000 IU of cholecalciferol, [vitamin D3] daily