Prevalence and Contributing Factors of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Young Women in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Recently, vitamin D deficiency is becoming an increasingly common issue globally, especially with young women. It is notable that women in Karachi have this deficiency despite more than enough sunlight.

Objective: To assess the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin d deficiency among women between 18 to 30 years of aged in Karachi Sindh.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and 300 women were sampled with stratified sampling from five different districts. Their serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were tested by ELISA. Their sun exposure, diet, physical activity, clothing practices as well as vitamin D intake were assessed using validated questionnaires.

Results: 68% of participants were deficient (<20 ng/mL) with the most important contributing factors being less than 15 minutes of daily sun exposure (78%), conservative dress (65%), and low consumption of vitamin D rich or fortified products (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Public health strategies to deal with vitamin d deficiency in young women in Karachi and raise public awareness, screening, supplementation, and fortification are urgently necessary.

Keywords: Vitamin D deficiency, Karachi, 25(OH)D, young women, insufficient sun exposure, health policy, food fortification, public health.