Vitamin D Level among Overweight and Obese Adults Attending Outpatient Clinics at Alexandria Main University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and a high body mass index (BMI) are both regarded as serious public health issues. VDD has been documented at all stages of life and is frequently linked to the development of obesity. Objective(s): To measure Vitamin D (Vit. D) level in overweight and obese adult patients, and to determine the effect of anthropometric measurements on Vit. D level. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by random sampling technique, upon 250 overweight and obese adult patients (62% females and 38% males) admitted to the outpatient clinics at Alexandria Main University Hospital in the period from April 2021 to September 2021. Patients were categorized according to WHO BMI classification. Data were collected by a questionnaire through interview which included data about the patients’ sociodemographic characteristics. Anthropometric measurements were recorded, and the enzyme linked fluorescence assay (ELFA) method was employed to quantify serum 25(OH) D by using the Endocrine Society cutoffs to determine Vit. D level. Results : Among 250 overweight and obese patients, 59.2% suffered from VDD. Negative correlations were found between Vit. D levels and age (r=-0.139) , weight (r=-0.844), waist circumference (r=-0.502), and truncal fat (r=-0.395). Conclusion: More than half of the overweight and obese persons had low serum concentrations of Vit. D. Their anthropometric measurements had a negative correlation with Vit. D levels. They may need a higher dose of Vit. D supplements compared to lean subjects.