Does the Access to Sun Exposure Ensure Adequate Levels of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D? - Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia

Abstract

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D, altered arterial blood pressure, and serum levels of glucose and lipids in community-dwelling women in the city of Ribeirão Preto, in the southeast of Brazil.

Methods

Thiswas a cross-sectional studyof women aged40-70years old.Calciumintake and level of sun exposure were assessed by means of a questionnaire. A blood sample was used to determine glucose, lipid profile and 25-hydroxyvitaminD(25[OH]D) concentration.

Results

Ninety-one women were enrolled (age = 54.2 ± 7.1 years). Themean serum 25(OH)D concentration was 25.7 ± 8.9 ng/mL. A total of 24 (26.4%) women had 25 (OH)D levels < 20 ng/mL. Seventy women (76.9%) had 25(OH)D levels < 30 ng/mL. Seventy-five women (90.4%) had inadequate calcium intake, and 61 women (67%) had appropriate sun exposure, 49 of whom (80.3%) had serum 25(OH)D levels < 30 ng/mL.

Conclusion

This study indicates that even in community-dwelling women, living in a city with high sun exposure, serum levels of 25(OH)D > 30 ng/ml are hardly reached. Thus, it is probable that other intrinsic factors besides sun exposure may regulate the levels of vitamin D.