Risk factors for vitamin D deficiency in Abu Dhabi Emirati population

Al Zarooni A R ,Nagelkerke N ,Al Marzouqi F I ,15 February 2022 ,Risk factors for vitamin D deficiency in Abu Dhabi Emirati population , National Library of Medicine ,doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0264064

Abstract: 

Objective: There have been concerns regarding the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the United Arab Emirates and the association between this prevalence and cardiovascular risk. Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health problem, with a high prevalence in the Abu Dhabi national population. This cross-sectional retrospective observational study aimed to elucidate vitamin D deficiency symptoms and contributing factors in this context.

Method and sampling: Among 12346 participants presenting for their Weqaya population comprehensive cardiovascular risk factor screening, 700 were randomly selected and telephoned, among whom 400 completed a questionnaire that elicited information on dietary intake, sun exposure, clothing, physical activity, and symptoms related to vitamin D deficiency.

Results: Higher vitamin D levels were noted in participants who consumed extra servings of cod liver oil, tuna, salmon, and eggs; who wore clothes with their arms and legs exposed; and who performed daily physical activity. Symptoms of hypovitaminosis D (bone pain) were more frequently found in females. Fatigue is significantly associated with low vitamin D and younger participants. Strategies focusing on health promotion and lifestyle interventions should be implemented to address vitamin D deficiency.

Conflict of interest statement
The Seha company is the government institution and had no role in data collection or analysis or writing the manuscript and no conflict of interest The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264064