journal articles
AGE AND MILK CONSUMPTION ARE ASSOCIATED WITH VITAMIN D STATUS IN PRE-MENOPAUSAL SAUDI WOMEN
N.J. Aljohani, L.Z. Abu Zaid, M.A.F. Abbas, A.F. AlKaabba, M. Alghamdi, H.O. Alothman, G. Mohammed, A. Alshahrani
J Aging Res Clin Practice 2013;2(4):351-354
Background: There is little evidence published on the prevalence of vitamin d deficiency among Saudi women, in spite of the widespread food fortification and the excellent opportunity of available sun light all over the year. The present cross-sectional study aims to determine the prevalence and risk factors of vitamin D deficiency among premenopausal women visiting commercial centers in Riyadh City. Materials and Methods: A quasi-random technique was employed in the recruitment of subjects from various commercial Malls in Riyadh last May-November, 2012. A total of 256 subjects filled a general questionnaire, height and weight were measured and blood extracted ascertaining total 25-hydroxyvitamin D, calcium, phosphorous and alkaline phophatase from a vitamin D External Quality Assessment (DEQAS)-certified laboratory. Results: Vitamin D deficiency (< 50 nmol/L) was noted in 200 (77.6%) of subjects. Age and milk consumption were the significant predictors of vitamin D status, with 33.9% of variance perceived (p < 0.001). Increased BMI, being married and the presence of muscle pain were all significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency. Conclusion: Nearly 4 out of 5 premenopausal Saudi women shoppers harbor vitamin D deficiency and this is influenced by age and milk consumption. It is clear that the general female public faces an imminent threat of vitamin D deficiency-related diseases unless aggressive public awareness is conducted.