Mean Serum Vitamin Research Articles

Serum Vitamin D Level and Severity of Adult Allergic Rhinitis at a Tertiary Hospital in Northeast Nigeria

Abstract Context: Recent studies have reported abnormal levels of serum vitamin D in patients with allergic rhinitis. This linkage has not been demonstrated in our environment, northeast Nigeria. This study aimed to determine the levels of serum vitamin D and correlate them with disease severity in patients with allergic rhinitis in a tertiary hospital in northeast Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study of patients with allergic rhinitis who attended ear, nose, and throat and the respiratory medicine clinics of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, Nigeria, from January 2022 to May 2023. Data collected from participants included demographic information, clinical findings, and disease severity graded as mild–moderate or severe based on the allergic rhinitis and its impact on asthma WHO 2008 classification. Serum vitamin D levels were measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: The study recruited 61 participants, of whom 39 (63.9%) were women. The mean age (±SD) was 38.66 ± 14.34 years, while the mean serum vitamin D levels (±SD) was 36.65 ± 15.54 ng/ml. Thirteen (21.3%) participants had insufficient serum vitamin D levels below 24 ng/ml, whereas 48 (78.7%) had sufficient serum vitamin D levels of 24–80 ng/ml. There were statistically significant differences between mild and moderate–severe allergic rhinitis with respect to vitamin D level (mean ± SD, 26.73 ± 17.96 vs 38.84 ± 14.24, respectively, 95% CI: −22.06 to −2.16, P = 0.018). There was a significantly positive relationship between serum vitamin D and the severity of allergic rhinitis (χ2 = 8.839, P = 0.003). Conclusion: The majority of patients had sufficient levels of serum vitamin D. Higher serum vitamin D was associated with higher severity of allergic rhinitis.

Study of Correlation between Serum Vitamin B12 Level and Aberrant DNA Methylation in Infertile Males.

Altered DNA methylation pattern in sperms has been associated with infertility in males demonstrating defective spermatogenesis or low semen quality. Vitamin B-12, by affecting 1-carbon metabolism pathways, might alter the DNA methylation pattern. We aimed to study the correlation of serum vitamin B12 levels with aberrant DNA methylation in infertile male patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 17 oligozoospermic infertile males (WHO criteria, 2010) and 10 healthy fertile males. Serum vitamin B12 levels were estimated using the chemiluminescence method. Global methylation was determined using the ELISA system (Imprint Methylated DNA Quantification Kit, Sigma-Aldrich). The levels of global DNA methylation were calculated and compared relative to the methylated (100%) control DNA provided with the kit. Mean serum vitamin B12 concentration in the control group was higher than that of the case group. This difference in serum vitamin B12 concentration in both groups was found statistically significant. Although the results of this study show that oligozoospermic men have relatively lower global DNA methylation as compared to normozoospermic control, the values could not reach a statistically significant level. A small positive correlation was found between serum vitamin B12 levels and percent methylation defect (r = 0.14) but was statistically insignificant. Our study concludes that oligozoospermic infertile males have a significant deficiency of vitamin B12 as compared to normozoospermic fertile males. This study did not find any significant difference in global DNA methylation between the two groups. The present study does not suggest any correlation between serum vitamin B12 level and percent DNA methylation.

Serum Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients.

Introduction Essential vitamins like folate and vitamin B12 are crucial for many physiological functions. Patients with renal failure undergoing regular hemodialysis in the general population may experience harmful effects from vitamin B12 deficits. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the frequency of vitamin B12 deficiency in hemodialysis patients and its association with other clinical parameters. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at the dialysis unit of Patel Hospital and Lifeline Hospital, Karachi, using a non-probability consecutive sampling technique after obtaining ethical approval from Lifeline Hospital (LLH/HR/02-22). The study duration was sixmonths, from January 10, 2023, to July 22, 2023. A total of 135 adult renal failure patients with ages >18 and <70 yearson maintenance hemodialysis for >1 year were included in the study. The chi-square testwas usedto determine the association between vitamin B12 deficiency and age and gender. A p-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The study findings showed that out of 135 patients, 82 (60.7%) were males and 53 (39.3%) were females, with a mean age of 50.80 ± 10.03 years. The duration of hemodialysis was approximately 1-2 years in 98 (72.6%) patients, 2-3 years in 27 (20.0%) patients, and 3-4 years in only 9 (6.7%) patients. The mean serum vitamin B-12 levels were 411.61 ± 224.95 pg/ml, with 30 (22.2%) of the subjects being deficient. In terms of duration of hemodialysis, there was a significant association (p= 0.013). Between patients withnormal4 (4%) and deficient 5 (17%) vitamin B12 and 3-4 years of hemodialysis. Conclusion In this study, we found that a significant proportion of patients on chronic hemodialysis had vitamin B12 deficiency. Moreover, vitamin B12 deficiency was significantly associated with duration of hemodialysis. Therefore, we recommend periodic vitamin B12 testing in hemodialysis patients to avoid any associated complications.

Relationship Between Serum Vitamin A Levels and Maternal Education and Social Status Among Undernourished Children in Zaria

Background: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) affects an estimated 6 million preschool children in Nigeria and 20 million in Africa. The deficiency significantly increases childhood morbidity and mortality when associated with undernutrition.&#x0D; Objective: To determine the relationship between serum vitamin A levels, maternal education, and social status among undernourished Nigerian children.&#x0D; Methodology: This was a case-control, hospital-based, descriptive study of children aged 6-59 months carried out at the Institute of Child Health (ICH) Banzazzau, Zaria. The serum vitamin A level was assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Values below a cut-off, usually taken as 0.70 µmol/L (20 µg/ dl) and 0.35 µmol/L (10 µg/dl), defined as low serum vitamin A and vitamin A deficiency, respectively.&#x0D; Results: Sixty-six children were recruited as the cases and age-matched controls. Eleven children in each group had low serum vitamin A levels. The three children with vitamin A deficiency belonged to the cases. &#x0D; The overall mean serum vitamin A for the cases was 59.4412.93µg/dl, while it was 59.90±14.06µg/dl for the controls. The overall mean serum vitamin A levels based on maternal education were 57.26±16.2µg/dl for the cases and 61.02±5.36µg/dl for the controls (p = 0.01). The overall mean serum vitamin A levels based on social class were 59.36±7.38µg/dl and 61.67±6.74µg/dl for the cases and controls, respectively (p = 0.01). &#x0D; Conclusion: The lowest mean serum vitamin A levels for the cases were recorded in the younger age groups compared to the controls. Maternal educational levels and social class greatly influenced their children's serum vitamin A levels.&#x0D; Keywords: Childhood, Educational level, Retinol, Social class, Under-nutrition, Vitamin A. &#x0D; Background: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) affects an estimated 6 million preschool children in Nigeria and 20 million in Africa. The deficiency significantly increases childhood morbidity and mortality when associated with undernutrition.&#x0D; Objective: To determine the relationship between serum vitamin A levels, maternal education, and social status among undernourished Nigerian children.&#x0D; Methodology: This was a case-control, hospital-based, descriptive study of children aged 6-59 months carried out at the Institute of Child Health (ICH) Banzazzau, Zaria. The serum vitamin A level was assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Values below a cut-off, usually taken as 0.70 µmol/L (20 µg/ dl) and 0.35 µmol/L (10 µg/dl), defined as low serum vitamin A and vitamin A deficiency, respectively.&#x0D; Results: Sixty-six children were recruited as the cases and age-matched controls. Eleven children in each group had low serum vitamin A levels. The three children with vitamin A deficiency belonged to the cases. &#x0D; The overall mean serum vitamin A for the cases was 59.4412.93µg/dl, while it was 59.90±14.06µg/dl for the controls. The overall mean serum vitamin A levels based on maternal education were 57.26±16.2µg/dl for the cases and 61.02±5.36µg/dl for the controls (p = 0.01). The overall mean serum vitamin A levels based on social class were 59.36±7.38µg/dl and 61.67±6.74µg/dl for the cases and controls, respectively (p = 0.01). &#x0D; Conclusion: The lowest mean serum vitamin A levels for the cases were recorded in the younger age groups compared to the controls. Maternal educational levels and social class greatly influenced their children's serum vitamin A levels.

Investigating Platelet Count in Children With Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Objectives: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an immune-mediated disease associated with immune dysregulation and autoantibody production. Numerous studies have shown that vitamin D has a protective effect against autoimmune diseases. As vitamin D deficiency has been identified in the majority of children with chronic ITP, this study evaluates the effects of vitamin D supplementation on the platelet count of such children. Methods: This was a quasi-clinical trial study and the study population consisted of children with chronic ITP who were referred to Afzalipur Hospital in Kerman City, Iran, from August 2020 to September 2021. All patients' vitamin D levels were measured and subjects with levels below 30 mg/dL were treated while the remaining children received the standard vitamin D supplementation. Subsequently, after a 3 and 9-month interval, patients’ vitamin D levels and platelet counts were assessed. Results: As a result, the mean serum vitamin D level increased significantly from 21.34±5.87 mg/dL to 34.25±5.64 mg/dL throughout the study. The mean serum platelet count was 18085.71±1292.10 µL at the start of the trial, 26628.57±1727.72 µL after 3 months, and 32114.28±1127.77 µL after 9 months, which showed a significant increase. Discussion: In conclusion, vitamin D boosts platelet count in chronic ITP patients. Thus, all children with chronic ITP should be evaluated and treated for vitamin D insufficiency.

Assessment of Vitamin D status of patients with human immunodeficiency virus

ABSTRACT Background: Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) commonly occurs in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLWHIV) and is linked to bone disorders and metabolic and infectious diseases. HIV seropositivity and VDD may worsen the consequences on the individual. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using 90 serum samples from 42 HIV-positive and 48 HIV-negative patients attending the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH). This study was approved by the NAUTH Ethics Committee. Serum Vitamin D levels were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Sociodemographic data were obtained using a questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Windows version 27, and P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, 13.3% of the population had suboptimal Vitamin D levels, with 2.2% having VDD and 11.1% having Vitamin D insufficiency. VDD was found in 2.2% and 2.1% of the HIV-positive group and HIV-negative groups, respectively. No significant difference was observed in mean serum Vitamin D levels between the two groups (P &gt; 0.05). Within the HIV-positive group, education, place of living, and skin coloration were associated with suboptimal Vitamin D levels, and only skin coloration was associated with HIV-negative subjects. Conclusion: VDD is relatively low in the region; however, it may contribute to poor bone health in PLWHIV. Interventions should target individuals with poor educational attainment, living in rural domains, or dark skin coloration. Studies with large sample size are needed to determine the effects of Vitamin D supplementation or exposure to sunlight on HIV infection.

The effect of motivation type on intake and nutritional status of vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, iron and nutrition knowledge in individuals following a vegan diet

The fundamental principle of veganism is to avoid all possible animal exploitation and therefore, animal ethics has always been a primary motivator. Nowadays, the environment and health are also common motivators. Omission of all animal products leads to dietary exclusion of vitamin B12, limited intake of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, and intake of low bioavailable iron sources1. Obtaining the knowledge to appropriately plan and replace nutrients through food or supplementation is key to avoiding deficiencies and subsequent consequences. This study aimed to determine the effect of motivation for being vegan on intake of key nutrients and nutritional knowledge. This cross-sectional, observational study recruited participants, who had followed a vegan diet for minimum 2 years. Demographics and nutrition knowledge were obtained from questionnaires. Motivation type was determined using the validated vegetarian eating motives inventory (VEMI) – participants scored the importance of animal ethic, environment and health. Intakes of vitamin B12 and iron, were collected using a 4-day food diary and assessed against Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). Blood samples were taken to determine status of vitamin B12, haemoglobin, serum ferritin, and omega-3 index. Omega-3 index score ≤4 indicates increased risk of coronary heart disease. Animal ethics was the greatest motivator to become vegan, with 83.5% of participants scoring it as very important, compared to 71.7% of people stating the environment, and 53.3% stating health. No association was found between all motivation types and intake of vitamin B12 and iron, nor omega-3 index. Mean vitamin B12 intake (supplements excluded) of 2.11ug/day ± 3.43 exceeded the EAR of 2.0ug/day for both men and women, however intakes ranged between 0.00 and 37.63ug/day. Mean intake of iron (18.77mg/day) exceeded the EAR for both men and women. Overall mean omega-3 index was 3.16%. Both men (162.24g/L) and women (151.44g/L) had adequate mean Hb serum concentrations. Mean serum ferritin was within normal range for both men (64.86ug/L ± 43.48) and women (32.55ug/L ± 26.04). Overall mean serum vitamin B12 was within normal range (316.54pmol/L ± 146.18), however a large range was observed from 72.00pmol/L to 1,015pmol/L. Males and females had similar knowledge, with only one question regarding fibre content in cornflakes found to be significantly different (P = 0.012). Knowledge was varied e.g., 100% of participants could identify that pasta was a carbohydrate source, yet could not identify which fats are most important to reduce. Mean vitamin B12 intake exceeding EAR and normal status despite limited vegan sources, indicates high consumption of high bioavailable fortified foods, and supplementation. Iron status shows large consumption of iron rich foods to overcome bioavailability issues, reflected by adequate iron intake, after increasing EAR by 80% to meet recommendations. The mean omega-3 index shows a low cardioprotective omega-3 fatty acid intake.

Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women in Southeast Asia represents public health crisis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe occurrence of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) among pregnant women in Southeast Asia is a pressing public health issue with far-reaching implications for maternal and fetal health. This study aims to assess the prevalence of VDD among pregnant women in Southeast Asia represents public health crisis. MethodsA meta-analysis was carried out to evaluate the occurrence of VDD in Southeast Asian pregnant women. The search encompassed articles published in PubMed, ProQuest, and EBSCO from January 2010 to December 2023. The prevalence rate is determined by dividing the total count of pregnant women with recorded vitamin D levels by the number of those found to be deficient in vitamin D. For statistical analysis, the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was utilized, and the 95% CI was computed using the Clopper-Pearson method. ResultsThe prevalence of VDD among pregnant women in Southeast Asia was 60% (95% CI, 38%–82%; p < 0.001; I2, 99.8%), while vitamin D insufficiency was found in 25% (17%–32%; p < 0.001; I2, 95.2%), and hypovitaminosis D was present in 85% (74%–95%; p < 0.001; I2, 99.4%). The mean serum vitamin D level was 42.48 nmol/L (32.40 nmol/L - 52.57 nmol/L; p < 0.001; I2, 99.5%). ConclusionOur meta-analysis highlights a significant public health crisis regarding VDD among pregnant women in Southeast Asia. Public health strategies should prioritize efforts to raise awareness, promote sun exposure, and provide supplementation to ensure adequate vitamin D levels among pregnant women in Southeast Asia.

Do vitamin D levels affect forced expiratory flow 25-75 among children with asthma?

Background: Previous reports of association between vitamin D levels and pulmonary function based on forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and ratio of FEV1 to forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) gave mixed results. Forced expiratory flow 25-75 (FEF 25-75) is considered a sensitive parameter in children as it is effort independent.Objectives: To assess the correlation between serum vitamin D levels and pulmonary function parameters in children with asthma.Method: This cross-sectional analytic study was conducted at the paediatric respiratory clinic of a tertiary care referral hospital. Children aged 6-12 years, having asthma, on controllers with good compliance and under regular follow-up were enrolled.Results: Mean serum vitamin D level (16.8± 6.69ng/ml) was low and deficiency was seen in 36 (72%) children with asthma. Positive correlation (r=0.41) was seen between serum vitamin D levels and predicted FEF 25-75%. Univariate analysis between vitamin D and FEF 25-75 showed decreased vitamin D levels were associated with significantly low FEF 25-75 (p&lt;0.001). In multivariate linear regression analysis after adjustment for age and sex, the relationship was direct and significant (R2=0.18, p&lt;0.05) but for FEV1 the relationship was not significant (R2=-0.034, p=0.336).Conclusions: Vitamin D levels showed direct and significant relationship with FEF 25-75 outcome in children with asthma.

Searching The New Culprit of Optic Neuritis: The Role of Vitamin D

Abstract&#x0D; Introduction : Low vitamin D status has long been associated in multiple sclerosis patient with higher risk of disease progression and frequent relapses. Vitamin D plays an important role in modulating the immune process responsible for demyelination. To this date, the study on vitamin D deficiency in optic neuritis case is still rare.&#x0D; Case Illustration : Female, 20 years old, presenting with bilateral sudden visual loss since 1 week prior. The patient looked relatively pale and complained of accompanying headache and myalgia. Visual acuity in both eyes were light perception with dilated pupils and posterior segment showing optic disc swelling. CBC, infection and autoimmune screening came within normal limit and brain MRI further confirmed the presence of optic neuritis. The patient was given high dose intravenous steroid but showed no improvement. Later, she was screened for nutrient deficiency and found sign of low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D. After one week of oral supplementation and neuroprotective agents, her vision drastically improved to 6/6 in both eyes.&#x0D; Discussion : Vitamin D deficiency nowadays is getting more prevalent in high risk individuals with low dietary intake and sunlight exposure. Recent study found that mean serum vitamin D level were significantly lower in autoimmune optic neuritis (ON) and were associated with ON attack severity. Vitamin D sufficiency is associated with better inflammatory outcome and long term neurodegenerative measures in demyelinating diseases, as shown by improvement in RNFL thickness after attack.&#x0D; Conclusion : Screening for vitamin D deficiency is essential to consider in managing patient with atypical optic neuritis.

High Incidence of Vitamin D Deficiency (VDD) Among Indoor Workers: Association with Dietary and Lifestyle Factors

ABSTRACT The study evaluated the relationship of various dietary and lifestyle factors with vitamin D status and bone health of adults engaged in office jobs. A total of 100 subjects comprising of 50 males and 50 females (with their willingness to participate) in the age group of 30–50 years were purposively selected for the investigation, who were spending 8 hours in the offices. Results showed that most of the subjects had vitamin D deficit with mean serum vitamin D level as 13.2 ng/ml and 68% were osteopenic. Dietary phytates, sedentary lifestyle, higher body mass index were found to have a deleterious impact on vitamin D status. This silent epidemic needs to be addressed with effective public health initiatives, such as raising awareness about the availability of fortified foods, optimum time, and body surface area for sun exposure.

Correlation of Calcium Metabolic Axis with Urinary Stone Characteristics

Background: Urinary stone disease (USD) refers to the presence of stones or salt crystals within the urinary tract, with calcium stones accounting for approximately 80% of cases. Increased urinary calcium and phosphorus excretion predispose individuals to urinary stones, with hypercalciuria being the most significant risk factor. Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in modifying urine calcium and phosphorus excretion, and it enhances calcium and phosphorus reabsorption in the kidneys. Urinary stone disease is a recognized risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may also lead to life-threatening complications such as perinephric abscesses, urosepsis, and urinary tract malignancies. The role of serum vitamin D and its effects on serum calcium and phosphorus in urinary stone formation have been subjects of controversy. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the associations between serum calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels and urinary stones. Methods: This retrospective study involved two groups of 90 patients, one with urinary stones and the other without. Demographic and biochemical data, including serum calcium, phosphorus, and 25-(OH) vitamin D levels, were recorded for all patients. Patients were categorized into four groups based on their serum vitamin D levels: Excess, sufficient, insufficient, and deficient. The presence and characteristics of urinary stones were assessed using non-contrast CT scans. Results: The mean age of the patients was 54.62 ± 15.46 years. Laboratory investigations revealed mean serum calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels of 9.56 ± 0.65 mg/dL, 3.53 ± 0.79 mg/dL, and 25.05 ± 12.96 ng/mL, respectively. This study demonstrated a significant correlation between serum calcium levels and the maximum diameter of urinary stones (correlation = 0.313, P-value = 0.005). No other significant associations were found between serum calcium, serum phosphorus, and serum vitamin D levels and the number of kidney stones, stone laterality, and type of kidney stone. There was also no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusions: In conclusion, the role of serum calcium, phosphorus, and 25-(OH) vitamin D levels in urinary stone formation remains controversial. This study suggests that there is no significant association between serum calcium, phosphorus, or 25-(OH) vitamin D and urinary stones, except for a positive association between serum calcium and the diameter of the stone.

Relationship of Serum Vitamin D Levels to the Severity of Migraine

Abstract Background: Most studies done on Vitamin D deficiency in migraine focused more on headache frequency than intensity and severity of the condition. This study is aimed at determining the relationship between serum Vitamin D levels and severity of migraine in a Nigerian setting. Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional analytical study design, adult patients with migraine consecutively attending the neurology clinic at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, were recruited on fulfilling the study criteria. Their age- and sex-matched healthy headache-free controls were also recruited. Demographic information and clinical parameters were obtained with an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Headache severity and pain intensity were documented using incorporated headache disability index (HDI) and numerical rating scale (NRS) tools, respectively. Serum levels of Vitamin D, calcium and albumin were assayed for all study participants. Results: The participants comprised 35 migraine and 50 control subjects. The migraine subjects comprised 10 males and 25 females, with mean ages of 29.4 ± 9.3 and 40.0 ± 11.1 years respectively (P = 0.01). The mean serum Vitamin D levels among migraine and control participants were 43.45 ng/ml ± 16.84 and 48.78 ng/ml ± 23.33, respectively (P = 0.31). The mean NRS was 7.3 ± 1.2 while the mean HDI was 44.7 ± 19.1 among migraine patients. There was no significant correlation between serum Vitamin D levels and pain intensity (r = 0.29, P = 0.9), and no correlation with HDI (r = 0.004, P = 0.96). Conclusion: The serum Vitamin D levels among migraine and control participants were not significantly different. No significant relationship was found between serum Vitamin D level and headache severity index or pain intensity in migraine patients.

The Status of Vitamin D in Obese Adults in Southern Morocco: a Cross-Sectional Study.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in two forms, sourced either from plants (D2) or animals (D3). Numerous epidemiological studies worldwide have highlighted its deficiency across diverse populations in various countries. When coupled with obesity, this deficiency becomes a significant global health concern. Our study aimed to evaluate the vitamin D levels among obese individuals in Southern Morocco. This is a retrospective, cross-sectional descriptive study on the vitamin D status in obese subjects. This study was conducted at the "Health Universe" Diet Center in Agadir, Morocco. The measurement method involved using a Tanita® wall-mounted metal stadiometer to determine height and a Tanita® BC 418 MA segmental body composition analyzer to determine weight. The serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D was determined by elec-trochemiluminescence (ECLIA) using the Elecsys® and Cobas e411®. The sample of our study, consisting of 1,210 individuals, is composed of 73.5% (n = 889) females and 26.5% (n = 321) males. The mean age of the entire sample is 42.3 ± 13.1 years (ranging from 18 to 86 years). The mean BMI is 37 ± 5.69 kg/m², with a higher value in females (37.4 ± 5.85 kg/m²) compared to males (35.7 ± 5.03 kg/m²), including 42.8% moderate obesity, 34.2% severe obesity, and 23% morbid obesity. The mean serum vitamin D level in our sample is 15.7 ± 7.67 ng/mL. This level is 14.5 ± 7.42 ng/mL for females and 19.2 ± 7.31 ng/mL for males. However, only 5.3% of the subjects have an adequate serum vitamin D level, while 18% have an insufficiency, 52.5% have a moderate deficiency, and 24.2% have a severe deficiency. An inverse trend was noted for BMI, which shows a very significant inverse correlation with serum vitamin D concentration (r = -0.18 and p < 0.01). Our results support the hypothesis that obesity is inversely associated with low vitamin D levels. Lifestyle improvement should be considered as the primary treatment option, aiming to enhance the dysmetabolic state associated with obesity and vitamin D deficiency.

Assessment of Serum Vitamin D Levels and Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Vitamin D Deficiency among Emergency Health-care Workers at a Tertiary Care Center in North India: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study

Background: The importance of vitamin D in maintaining overall health cannot be overstated, as its deficiency is a significant contributor to mortality and morbidity. There is a paucity of literature on vitamin D deficiency among healthcare workers (HCWs) in India, especially those working in emergency settings and day-night shifts. Aims and Objectives: This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to assess the levels of vitamin D among emergency healthcare workers (HCWs) and evaluate their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding vitamin D deficiency. The study sought to address the limited literature on vitamin D deficiency among HCWs in emergency settings in India. Materials and Methods: A total of 105 randomly selected healthy HCWs from the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital in north India participated in the study. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect demographic information and assess the participants' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to vitamin D. Serum vitamin D levels were measured using a 2 ml venous blood sample. Results: The mean serum vitamin D level was 15.08 ± 8.52 ng/ml, indicating a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (94.3%) among the participants. While most participants were aware of the active form of vitamin D, its sources and critical functions, knowledge about non-skeletal manifestations and measurable forms of vitamin D deficiency was limited. A majority of the participants (85.3%) recognized the importance of vitamin D as a micronutrient, and 69.3% expressed the need for education on its role. However, only 48.5% emphasized regular vitamin D intake. Conclusion: This study highlights the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among HCWs in the emergency department and identifies knowledge gaps regarding its critical functions. There is a need for an effective system to identify and address vitamin D-related health issues among HCWs, which could potentially enhance their overall efficiency.

Vitamin D levels and tumor necrosis factor-α activity in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: An exploratory study in North-East India

Background: Diabetes poses a global threat, leading to hospitalizations and premature death if not managed properly. It involves tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), an inflammatory cytokine, which binds to TNF-α receptor-1, triggering sphingomyelinase, and ceramide production. Vitamin D acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammatory cytokines and proinflammatory cell growth, and benefiting diabetes mellitus (DM). Aims and Objectives: The primary objective was to compare serum Vitamin D and TNF-α levels in diabetics and non-diabetics. The secondary objective was to explore Vitamin D and TNF-α correlation in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Materials and Methods: A case–control study involved 92 subjects in each group. Data included demographics, clinical assessments, glycemic parameters, Vitamin D, and TNF-α. Statistical analysis used student’s t-test and Pearson correlation (P&lt;0.05). Results: The cohort comprised 34 females (36.96%) and 58 males (63.04%). Cases had significantly higher glycemic levels: FBG (247.2±53.92 mg/dL vs. 91.45±16.64 mg/dL), postprandial plasma glucose (319.7±72.08 mg/dL vs. 111.3±21.76 mg/dL), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (10.39±2.41% vs. 5.43±0.48%). Mean serum Vitamin D in cases (22.63 ng/mL) was significantly lower than controls (58.15 ng/mL), and mean TNF-α in cases (5.01 pg/mL) was higher than controls (4.63 pg/mL, P&lt;0.0001). HbA1c negatively correlated with serum Vitamin D (r=−0.7461) and positively with TNF-α (r=0.7831). Vitamin D correlated negatively with TNF-α (r=−0.6481). Conclusion: The study revealed lower serum Vitamin D and higher TNF-α levels in cases, with a significant inverse association. It also found an inverse link between Vitamin D and HbA1c and a strong positive correlation between HbA1c and TNF-α. Recognizing Vitamin D and TNF-α’s diagnostic significance promises innovative strategies for managing type 2 DM.

Low Serum Vitamin D3 Levels among Premenopausal Women with Uterine Fibroids: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors in women of reproductive age, with an incidence ranging from 5.4% to 77%, leading to significant morbidity and affecting quality of life. Earlier studies suggested that uterine fibroids are more likely to develop in those women with low levels of serum vitamin D. Subsequently, the objective of the current study was to investigate the association of serum vitamin D3 levels in premenopausal women with uterine fibroids. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Indira IVF Hospital and Fertility Clinics located in India. The study was conducted from April 2022 to November 2022. In this study, a total of 160 women [80 cases and 80 controls] were enrolled. Women diagnosed with at least one uterine fibroid measuring 2 cm in size through a transvaginal scan were considered as cases, in comparison to healthy controls. Results: The mean serum vitamin D3 levels for the case and control groups were 10.85 ± 3.34 ng/ml and 19.64 ± 5.50 ng/ml, respectively. Serum vitamin D3 was significantly lower (P &lt; 0.001) in women with uterine fibroids compared to healthy controls. Additionally, a significant association was observed between serum vitamin D3 levels and the number of fibroids in the case group (P &lt; 0.001). This indicates that as the level of serum vitamin D3 decreases, the number of fibroids increases gradually. Conclusion: Our study suggests that women with uterine fibroids tend to have low serum vitamin D3 concentrations. Therefore, serum vitamin D3 concentration needs to be considered along with other risk factors in the treatment of uterine fibroids..

Wild fish consumption and latitude as drivers of vitamin D status among Inuit living in Nunavik, northern Québec.

To measure vitamin D status and estimate factors associated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in Nunavimmiut (Inuit living in Nunavik) adults in 2017. Data were from Qanuilirpitaa? 2017 Nunavik Inuit Health Survey, a cross-sectional study conducted in August-October 2017. Participants underwent a questionnaire, including an FFQ, and blood samples were analysed for total serum 25(OH)D. Nunavik, northern Québec, Canada. A stratified proportional model was used to select respondents, including 1,155 who identified as Inuit and had complete data. Geometric mean serum vitamin D levels were 65·2 nmol/l (95 % CI 62·9-67·6 nmol/l) among women and 65·4 nmol/l (95 % CI 62·3-68·7 nmol/l) among men. The weighted prevalence of serum 25(OH)D < 75 nmol/l, <50 nmol/l <30 nmol/l was 61·2 %, 30·3 % and 7·0 %, respectively. Individuals who were older, female, lived in smaller and/or more southerly communities and/or consumed more country (traditional) foods were at a reduced risk of low vitamin D status. Higher consumption of wild fish was specifically associated with increased serum 25(OH)D concentration. It is important that national, regional and local policies and programs are in place to secure harvest, sharing and consumption of nutritious and culturally important country foods like Arctic char and other wild fish species, particularly considering ongoing climate change in the Arctic which impacts the availability, access and quality of fish as food.

Osteopenia of Prematurity and its Maternal and Nutrition-Related Factors Among Preterm Infants Admitted to the NICU Department of Afzalipour Medical Center

Background: Osteopenia is a relatively common disorder in premature infants. If this disease is not diagnosed and treated promptly, it will lead to impaired growth in infancy. The present study was performed to assess the relationship between osteopenia and neonatal/maternal factors among premature neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Afzalipour Medical Center. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was performed on 100 premature infants who were admitted to the NICU of Afzalipour Medical Center in Kerman in 2017 and 2018. Alkaline phosphatase was measured in one-month-old infants as a screening criterion for osteopenia and its relation with factors such as birth weight, weight gain, duration of hospitalization, duration of intravenous feeding, type of nutrition, volume of formula, and food supplement consumption was investigated. Results: Of the total 100 preterm babies, based on the criterion utilized for diagnosis of osteopenia (alkaline phosphatase above 900 units/L), 41 infants had osteopenia of prematurity (41% prevalence). Infants who used breastmilk alone mostly had osteopenia of prematurity. The prevalence of osteopenia was higher among girls compared with boys. The mean length of hospitalization was longer and the total parenteral nutrition venous feeding was longer among neonates with osteopenia compared with other neonates. The mean serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in mothers of premature neonates with osteopenia compared with others. Conclusion: Infants who were fed exclusively with breast milk were more vulnerable to osteopenia, and supplements should be considered in these infants.

Low serum vitamin D in North Indian multi-drug resistant pulmonary tuberculosis patients: the role of diet and sunlight

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) and malnutrition are major global health problems, with multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB complicating international efforts. The role of vitamin D in susceptibility to and as an adjunctive treatment for TB is being studied extensively, although no study has included MDR-TB patients in context to dietary profile with vitamin D levels and sunlight exposure.Objective: This study aimed to estimate vitamin D serum levels and examine their association with dietary intake of vitamin D and sun exposure in patients with MDR-TB.Methods: North Indian participants were enrolled in three groups: MDR-TB, drug-susceptible pulmonary TB (DS-PTB), and healthy controls. All consenting participants underwent the estimation of macro- and micronutrient intake and sunlight exposure using structured questionnaires. Serum biochemistry, including 25-hydroxyvitamin D and calcium levels, was measured, and the correlation between variables was determined.Results: 747 participants were enrolled. Significant differences among the three groups were found in mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, body mass index, macronutrient intake, dietary vitamin D and calcium content, and sun exposure index (SEI). All except sun exposure (SEI was highest in DS-PTB patients) were found to follow the trend: MDR-TB < DS-PTB < healthy controls. The mean serum vitamin D levels of all groups were deficient and correlated positively with dietary intake and SEI.Conclusion: In this study’s we found significant association of serum vitamin D concentrations, dietary intake and sunlight exposure in MDR-TB, DS-PTB patients and healthy controls. Dietary intake may be more important than sun exposure in determining serum levels. However, the significance of this finding is uncertain. Further studies are required to confirm the association, direction, and potential for vitamin D supplementation to treat or prevent MDR-TB infection.