Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: A significant body of literature supports that 25(OH)vitD deficiency is associated with insulin resistance. We studied the prevalence of 25(OH)vitD deficiency across the spectrum of glucose metabolism.

Design: The study participants (441 total, 362 females (82.1%) and 79 males (17.9%)) had a mean age (±S.D.) of 64.59 (±9.44) years, range: 32–92 years. The study population was divided into two groups: Individuals with diabetes (n=184, 33 males), and controls with normal glucose levels (n=257, 46 males).

Results: The mean 25(OH)vitD values for males and females patients was 22.9±11.6 and 21.6±11.9 ng/ml respectively, P=0.815. The mean 25(OH)vitD±SD levels were significantly lower in subjects with diabetes (18.6±10.6 ng/ml) compared to normal subjects (24.2±12.2 ng/ml), P=0.035. There was no difference in the mean age of patients and sex distribution between the two groups. 25(OH)vitD deficiency was observed in 49.7% of the entire study population and was significantly more frequent in patients with diabetes compared to controls (60.9 vs 41.6% respectively). Only 26 out of 184 (14.1%) of patients with diabetes had 25(OH)vitD sufficiency and levels above 30 ng/ml, compared to 74 out 257 (28.8%) of individuals with normal glucose (P<0.001).

Conclusions: This study illustrates the higher prevalence of 25(OH)vitD deficiency among patients with diabetes. From a clinical standpoint, specific advice needs to be provided especially to people with diabetes. Vitamin D supplements on a regular basis over the year and adequate sun exposure could be also recommended in order to achieve sufficient levels of 25(OH)vitD.