Hypovitaminosis D in a healthy female population, aged from 40 to 85 years, in the west of Ireland.

BACKGROUND

Increasing attention has been focused on diseases associated with ageing, as the mean age of the population in developed countries increases. Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone play key roles in calcium homeostasis, which is integral to skeletal health.

AIMS

To assess the vitamin D status of healthy, community dwelling, middle-aged and older females.

METHODS

General biochemistry and bone profiles, including ALP, PTH and 25(OH)D, were determined.

RESULTS

Of 143 healthy white women receiving no supplementation or bone modifying treatments, 47% were vitamin D insufficient (<50 nmol/L) and only 4% were sufficient for the time of year. There was no statically significant correlation between age and 25(OH)D concentrations; neither was there a statistically significant seasonal variation in 25(OH)D levels noted.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin D status should be assessed more often in middle-aged and older females. Expected age-related and seasonal variations in 25(OH)D levels were not confirmed in this study.