Vitamin D status of Filipino adults: Evidence from the 8th National Nutrition Survey 2013

ABSTRACT

@#Introduction: This study reports the vitamin D status of Filipino adults in selected areas in the Philippines and determinants of deficiency, based on the 2013 National Nutrition Survey (NNS). Methods: The NNS collected blood samples from all members aged ≥20 years from selected households of the National Capital Region (NCR), Cebu and Davao del Sur. Serum vitamin D was determined by electrochemiluminescence assay. Data on age, sunscreen use, intake of supplement were collected. Body mass index was calculated. Results: The overall prevalence of combined vitamin D deficiency (<50 umol/L) and insufficiency (51-75 umol/L) was 48.7%, and was highest in the NCR (54.1%) and lowest in Davao del Sur (28.9%). Adults in NCR were more likely to have vitamin D insufficiency compared with those in Cebu (OR=0.59) and Davao (OR=0.30). Females had higher prevalence (62.5%) of vitamin D insufficiency than males (32.1%). Higher prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency was observed among 20-39 y (55.5%) and lowest among ≥60 y (38.1%). The younger adults (20-39 y) were more likely to have vitamin D insufficiency compared to 40-59 y (OR=0.63) and the ≥60 y (OR=0.43). Among sunscreen users aged 20-39 y and 40-59 y in Cebu and Davao del Sur, mean vitamin D levels were significantly lower than non-sunscreen users. Conclusion: The 2013 NNS revealed a high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency among Filipino adults. Gender, age, and area of residence were significant determinants of vitamin D insufficiency. Determining the vitamin D status is crucial in crafting interventions for its prevention and control.