<p>Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Iranian Pregnant Women</p>

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is a common concern. A high prevalence of VDD has been reported among pregnant women in different countries. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of VDD in the first trimester of pregnancy. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 267 pregnant women (before 14 weeks of gestation). The level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was measured. Demographic data (age, educational level, season of blood sampling, and vitamin D supplementation intake) were collected using a questionnaire. Results: Based on the results of the study, 205 out of 267 subjects (76.8%) had deficient vitamin D levels (<20 ng/mL), 39 (14.6%) had insufficient levels (20-29 ng/mL), and 23 (8.6%) had sufficient levels (≥30 ng/mL). In addition, 133 women (49.8%) had severe VDD. VDD was more prevalent in autumn/winter than in spring/summer (P=0.03). The prevalence of VDD was higher among the younger age group than in the older group (P=0.04). In multivariate analysis, the only variable that was significantly associated with low vitamin D status was taking supplements. Those who were not receiving vitamin D supplements had higher odds of VDD status (adjusted odds ratio=77.3, 95% CI 23.9-249.6). Conclusion: VDD is a public health problem in the first trimester of pregnancy. Greater awareness among healthcare providers and the community is required for prevention and appropriate treatment.

Serum Vitamin D Deficiency in NICU Hospitalized Neonates and Its Association with Neonatal Outcomes

“…The correlation between vitamin D levels and season of birth was also reported by Korj-Bulos et al They showed low levels of vitamin D in neonates who were born during winter months ( 11 ). Other studies demonstrated higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in colder seasons ( 9 , 11 ). However, some other researchers did not find any significant differences between season of birth and the vitamin D level ( 30 , 31 ).…”

“…The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women in Middle Eastern countries is high and is estimated to be 60-80% ( 7 , 8 ). Among Iranian pregnant women, the prevalence rates of vitamin D deficiency have been demonstrated as 78%, 76%, 70.4% and 69.2% by several studies ( 9 ). Deficiency of vitamin D in pregnant women decreases the transfer of this vitamin through the placenta and at birth ( 10 - 12 ).…”

Validity and reliability of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire for assessing dietary vitamin D and calcium intakes in Iranian childbearing age women

“…Vitamin D and Ca play vital roles in women’s overall health due to the effect of Ca on bone health and the role of vitamin D in the hemostasis of Ca as well as in women’s reproductive health ( 23 , 24 ). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has been reported to be around 75.1% among Iranian women ( 25 ). According to the study findings, 48.8% of participants had vitamin D deficiency.…”

Vitamin D-Related Risk Factors for Maternal Morbidity and Mortality during Pregnancy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…In Middle Eastern countries, VDD among pregnant women is an estimated 60–80% [ 9 , 10 ]. Among Iranian pregnant women, studies have reported prevalence rates of 78%, 76%, 70.4%, and 69.2% [ 11 ]. The estimated prevalence in pregnant women in the USA and Canada was reported to be 42–72% [ 12 ].…”