Hypovitaminosis D and Calcium Intake in Adult Population

Abstract

Background: Daily dietary calcium intake below the requirements has been related to lowlevels of vitamin D (Vit-D) and osteoarticular diseases. Objective: To determine the prevalence of Vit-D deficiency in the general population living in Bogotá, its relationship to dietary calcium intake, and the influence of socio-demographic factors and sunlight exposure. Materials and methods: In a pro-spective cohort of the general population (randomly selected), excluding individuals with conditions affecting calcium absorption or adequate Vit-D action, the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D (95 % ci) and regular consumption of calcium (rci, mg/day) is measured according to socio-demographic, anthropometric, biochemical, and sunlight exposure variables. A multiple regression model is implemented (no intercept) to predict Vit-D concentration based on the factors described. Results: Ninety-seven patients are included, 61 % of which are women, with a median age of 23 years, a weight of 65 kg (iqr: 55.2–70.5), a height of 165 cm ± 8.9, and bmi of 22.8 kg/m2 (iqr: 21.2–25.2). The rci was 393.7 mg/day, less than the benchmark for Colombian adults (p < 0.001); serum calcium concentration was 9.7 mg/dL. The mean Vit-D concentration (95 % ci) was 23.7 ng/mL (22.6–24.7); hypovitaminosis D was identified in 87 % of the sample (80.6–94.7 %), 24.7 % were classified as poor (15.6–33.8 %) and 62.9 % as insufficient (52.8–73 %). Vit-D concentration was predicted in a quadratic function by the interaction between sex, sunlight exposure, and rci (R2 > 90 %). Conclusion: The suspected high prevalence of Vit-D deficiency is confirmed in the general Colombian adult population as a result of low dietary calcium intake, demographic factors, and sunlight exposure.