Neither latitude , region of the world , nor laboratory methodology were found to be associated with the prevalence of hypovitaminosis
BACKGROUND Hypovitaminosis D is considered a global public health issue .
Knowledge of its true dimensions will allow us to design interventions and plan preventive measures that can have a significant impact on human health .
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D , defined as a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration < 30 ng/ml , in postmenopausal women around the world , as well as to identify the potential associated factors .
25-Hydoxyvitamin D levels among healthy Saudi Arabian women.
OBJECTIVE To assess the serum level of 25 hydroxyvitamin D 25OHD  among healthy Saudi Arabian women living in the eastern province . METHODS A cross-sectional r and omized study was conducted between February 1st 2008 and May 31st 2008 at the King Fahd University Hospital , Al-Khobar , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 200 Saudi women between 25 - 35 years group 1 and women of > or = 50 years group 2 .  Clinical examination , laboratory tests , a complete blood picture , serum calcium , phosphorous , alkaline phosphatase , parathormone , and the serum levels of 25OHD levels were carried out . Data on lifestyle , dietary , and demographic question naires were collected . Vitamin D was defined as deficient with serum level < 50 nmol/L , insufficient between 52 - 72 nmol/L , and normal as 75nmol/L. RESULTS In group 1 , 70 % of women had normal 25OHD , and in women of group 2 , 45 % had normal levels of 25OHD . Alkaline phosphatase and parathormone levels were significantly higher in women with low vitamin D levels . Sun exposure and consumption of dairy products were minimal . CONCLUSION Vitamin D deficiency among healthy young Saudi women of 25 - 35 years was 30 % and 55 % in women of > or = 50 years . This study indicates that hypovitaminosis D is common in young and postmenopausal women . Efforts are require to augment and encouraged women for adequate exposure to sunlight and increased intake of fortified vitamin D products to maintain skeletal health
Neither latitude , region of the world , nor laboratory methodology were found to be associated with the prevalence of hypovitaminosis
BACKGROUND Hypovitaminosis D is considered a global public health issue .
Knowledge of its true dimensions will allow us to design interventions and plan preventive measures that can have a significant impact on human health .
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D , defined as a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration < 30 ng/ml , in postmenopausal women around the world , as well as to identify the potential associated factors .