Abstract
BackgroundAccumulating evidence suggests an increased prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the Middle East. In this context, we aimed to determine whether the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is related to degree of physical activity and sun exposure among apparently healthy Saudi children and adolescents, a little studied population.MethodsA total of 331 Saudi children aged 6–17 years (153 boys and 178 girls) were included in this cross sectional study. Levels of physical activity and sun exposure were determined using a standard questionnaire. Anthropometry, serum calcium and 25-(OH) vitamin D were analyzed.ResultsAll subjects were vitamin D deficient, the majority being moderately deficient (71.6%). Age was the single most significant predictor affecting 25 (OH) Vitamin D levels, explaining 21% of the variance perceived (p = 1.68 x 10-14). Age-matched comparisons revealed that for groups having the same amount of sun exposure, those with moderate or are physically active will have higher levels of vitamin D status, though levels in across groups remained deficient.ConclusionVitamin D deficiency is common among Saudi children and adolescents, and is influenced by both sun exposure and physical activity. Promotion of an active outdoor lifestyle among Saudi children in both homes and schools may counteract the vitamin D deficiency epidemic in this vulnerable population. Vitamin D supplementation is suggested in all groups, including those with the highest sun exposure and physical activity.
Highlights
Accumulating evidence suggests an increased prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the Middle East
The kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has unique conditions that influence vitamin D status even though Saudi Arabia is sun-drenched throughout the year and temperatures often rise above 50 °C (122 °F) during summer
Physical activity and vitamin D The subjects were divided into three groups based on their level physical activity, subjects were divided into three groups: inactive, moderately active and active
Summary
Accumulating evidence suggests an increased prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the Middle East. In this context, we aimed to determine whether the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is related to degree of physical activity and sun exposure among apparently healthy Saudi children and adolescents, a little studied population. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has increased rapidly worldwide in both children and adults during the past decade [1,2,3]. A recent study revealed counterintuitive effects of a season to vitamin D status amongst Saudi locals and expatriates, revealing higher vitamin D status levels during winter months as compared with the summer [13]. Women in particular receive little or no sun-light since they cover their bodies with dark veils completely, for cultural and religious reasons
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