Endocrine Abstracts

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is widespread in Ukraine, particularly among older adults. Factors associated with vitamin D deficiency are not well defined.

The aim of the study was to evaluate vitamin D status and its correlatation among older adults of 5 communities in Ukrainian Carpathians.

Materials and methods: This cross–sectional study was based on study data for 1254 men and women aged 20–82 years. Anthropometric and socioeconomic data were collected in June-July 2018. Serum 25(OH)D levels were detected using a chemiluminescence immunoassay. The following socioeconomic data were obtained through self–administered questionnaires: education level, lifestyle, residency, and dietary habits. A logistic regression model was used to assess associations between anthropometric factors, socioeconomic factors and serum 25(OH)D levels.

Results: Median levels of serum 25(OH)D in men and women were 21.43 and 18.47 ng/ml, respectively. Vitamin D deficiency was common in subjects involved into the study, even though data collection was conducted during summer. The general prevalence of serum 25(OH)D levels < 20 ng/ml were 41.3% and 59.2% for men and women respectively. The general prevalence of serum 25(OH)D levels < 10 ng/ml were 3.7% and 6.4% for men and women respectively. A multivariable model indicated serum 25(OH)D level ≥20 ng/ml was significantly and positively correlated with male sex, and residency by the sea. The model also indicated that high level of physical activity was a protective factor of vitamin D deficiency for men and women. By contrast, deficient serum 25(OH)D level significantly correlated with education level (lower than primary school) or obesity for all patricipants.

Conclusion: This cross-sectional study of older adults in communities in Ukraine demonstrates that key factors positively correlated with serum 25(OH)D levels ≥20 ng/ml include male sex, residency about sea level, high physical activity and education level, maintenance of normal BMI.