Family Med Medical News about global vitamin D status;determinants of hypovitaminosis D

Your Article Summary

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Mithal A et al. - Reports from across the world indicate that hypovitaminosis D is widespread and is re-emerging as a major health problem globally.

Methods

Purpose of this review was:
- To provide a global perspective of vitamin D status across different regions of the world and
- To identify the common and significant determinants of hypovitaminosis D
6 regions of the world were reviewed: Asia, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Latin America, North America, and Oceania, through a survey of published literature

Results

Definition of vit D insufficiency and deficiency, as well as assay methodology for 25(OH)D, vary between studies
However, serum 25(OH)D levels <75 nmol/L are prevalent in every region studied
Levels below
Main factors associated with lower 25(OH)D levels:
- Older age, female sex, higher latitude, winter season,
- darker skin pigmentation, less sunlight exposure,
- dietary habits, and absence of vitamin D fortification

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