[Vitamin D status and associated factors in military and civilian dependents: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2018-2022]

This cross-sectional study evaluated vitamin D status and associated factors in military personnel and civilian dependents of the Brazilian Air Force, in Rio de Janeiro, between 2018 and 2022. Data from the Central Air Force Hospital (HCA) database were used, covering 15,651 individuals (6,162 military personnel and 9,399 civilians), aged 18 to 60 years. The variables analyzed were sex, age, occupation (military or civilian), month of collection, and vitamin D values, measured by chemiluminescence. The classification of vitamin D status followed criteria from the HCA Clinical Analysis Laboratory and the European Expert Consensus. Among military personnel, the prevalence rates of deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency were 21.3%, 47.6%, and 31.1%, respectively. Among civilians, they were 29.9%, 46.4%, and 23.7%. Men, older individuals, and collections conducted in the fall or summer showed better vitamin D levels. Although military personnel had a lower risk of deficiency and insufficiency than civilians, the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D is high. These data indicate the need for individual and collective strategies to improve vitamin D levels, especially among military personnel.