Vitamin D nutritional status in China: A multicenter cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Vitamin D deficiency is a significant global health issue.
• Limited data exists on vitamin D status across China's diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess vitamin D levels and deficiency prevalence in China.
• To identify demographic and geographic variations in vitamin D status.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 19,845 participants (China Osteoporosis Prevalence Study).
• Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) measured using electrochemiluminescence.
• Weighted analysis to assess prevalence across demographics and provinces.

Main Results:

• Mean 25OHD level was 26.00 ng/mL; deficiency (<20 ng/mL) affected 29.89% of the population.
• Higher deficiency rates observed in northern China (44.02%), females (39.95%), <40 years (33.46%), obese (32.54%), and urban residents (39.44%).
• Significant geographic disparities noted, with northwestern regions showing the highest prevalence.

Conclusions:

• Findings underscore the need for targeted public health strategies.
• Interventions should focus on high-risk groups: women, urban dwellers, individuals with obesity, and those with diabetes.
• Evidence supports policy development for vitamin D deficiency prevention and management in China.