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 .
EMAS position statement: Vitamin D and postmenopausal health.
INTRODUCTION There is emerging evidence on the widespread tissue effects of vitamin D. AIMS To formulate a position statement on the role of vitamin D in postmenopausal women . MATERIAL S AND METHODS Literature review and consensus of expert opinion . RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Epidemiological and prospect i ve studies have related vitamin D deficiency with not only osteoporosis but also cardiovascular disease , diabetes , cancer , infections and neurodegenerative disease . However the evidence is robust for skeletal but not nonskeletal outcomes where data from large prospect i ve studies are lacking . The major natural source of vitamin D is cutaneous synthesis through exposure to sunlight with a small amount from the diet in animal-based foods such as fatty fish , eggs and milk . Vitamin D status is determined by measuring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [ 25(OH)D ] levels . Optimal serum 25(OH)D levels are in the region of 30 - 90 ng/mL ( 75 - 225 nmol/L ) though there is no international consensus . Levels vary according to time of the year ( lower in the winter ) , latitude , altitude , air pollution , skin pigmentation , use of sunscreens and clothing coverage . Risk factors for low serum 25(OH)D levels include : obesity , malabsorption syndromes , medication use ( e.g. anticonvulsants , antiretrovirals ) , skin aging , low sun exposure and those in residential care . Fortified foods do not necessarily provide sufficient amounts of vitamin D. Regular sunlight exposure ( without sunscreens ) for 15 min , 3 - 4 times a week , in the middle of the day in summer generate healthy levels . The recommended daily allowance is 600 IU/day increasing to 800 IU/day in those aged 71 years and older . Supplementation can be undertaken with either vitamin D2 ( ergocalciferol ) or vitamin D3 ( cholecalciferol ) with monitoring depending on the dose used and the presence of concomitant medical conditions such as renal disease
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 .