Gender Differences in Vitamin D Status in China

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D insufficiency is widespread in China. Various factors influence vitamin D level in the body. The present study investigated vitamin D status of residents in Jinzhong city, China, and analyzed the influence of gender on vitamin D status. MATERIAL/METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 302 participants (176 men and 126 women) were recruited. Anthropometric data (body circumferences and height, weight) were collected, and serum vitamin D concentration was tested. RESULTS: Inadequate levels of vitamin D were found in 69% of men and 75% of women. Women’s 25(OH)D level (38.40±12.37 nmol/l) was substantially lower than that of the men (43.49±14.78 nmol/l) (p<0.01). The young women group had the lowest vitamin D level, which was even significantly below that of the elderly women group. Multiple linear regression analysis showed gender was significantly associated with vitamin D status (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency is common in residents of Jinzhong during the winter. Compared to men, women are more prone to have inadequate vitamin D levels.