Vitamin D status in pregnant Omanis: A disturbingly high proportion of patients with low vitamin D stores

Moza Al Kalbani, Omayma Elshafie*, Mohammed Rawahi, Ali Al-Mamari, Abdullah Al-Zakwani, Nicholas Woodhouse

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the vitamin D status of pregnant Omanis by measurement of their circulating 25 hydroxy vitamin D levels. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from a cohort of 103 consecutive healthy pregnant Omanis at the Armed Forces Hospital, Muscat, on their first antenatal visit. The study took place in May, June and July 2010. Results: Vitamin D deficiency was present in 34 (33%) of patients (25OHD3 <25 nmol/L), 'at risk' levels were found in 67 (65%) patients (25OHD3 25-50 nmol/L); two patients (1.9%) had values between 50 and 75 nmol/L, and no patients in the optimal range >75 nmol/L. Conclusion: If confirmed, these findings indicate the need for vitamin D replacement during pregnancy and lactation. Although not evidence based we recommend at least 1000 IU of cholecalciferol, (vitamin D3) daily.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)52-55
Number of pages4
JournalSultan Qaboos University Medical Journal
Volume11
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2011

Keywords

  • 25 hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD3)
  • Oman
  • Pregnancy
  • Vitamin D deficiency

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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