Source
Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Section, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar. mahdysalah@hotmail.com
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among health care professionals working at Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha, Qatar.
METHODS:
Between 15th January 2007 and 15th January 2008, 340 healthy volunteers were included in this study. Each subject completed a diary to determine the duration of sunlight exposure, and vitamin D supplements. Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, and albumin were obtained. Those with abnormal results were called for counselling.
RESULTS:
The mean overall vitamin D level was 11.7 ng/ml. It was lower in females (10.3 ng/ml) than in males (13.7 ng/ml). Ninety-seven percent of all participants had a mean level <30 ng/ml. Eighty-seven percent had a mean level of <20 ng/ml.
CONCLUSION:
We concluded that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among health care professionals in Qatar is very high.