Prevalence Of Vitamin D Insufficiency Among Older Adults in KNUST Hospital, Kumasi

Abstract

Vitamin D insufficiency is a prevalent issue among older adults, often attributed to inadequate sunlight exposure and a lack of vitamin D foods in their diets. This study specifically examined the prevalence of this insufficiency among older adults in Kumasi. Conducted as a cross-sectional study, the research encompassed 125 consistent attendees of the Geriatric Clinic at KNUST Hospital. Vitamin D concentrations were determined using blood analysis, while the duration of sunlight exposure and dietary consumption of vitamin D foods were evaluated with a structured questionnaire. Additionally, anthropometric measurements were employed to evaluate body composition parameters. Prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency, sunlight exposure duration, and body composition parameters were analysed using frequency distribution analysis. Furthermore, the utilization of Principal Component Analysis was employed to forecast dietary patterns linked with the intake of vitamin D foods. The findings underscored that a significant proportion of participants (70.4%) had insufficient vitamin D levels. Among the participants, only 6.4% had sufficient duration of sunlight exposure, and a mere 22.3% were likely to have a dietary pattern with vitamin D foods as part of their meals. Moreover, a majority showed elevated values in body composition parameters, including body fat (64.5%), visceral fat (95.6%), BMI (60.8%), and muscle mass (48%). Given that insufficient vitamin D can potentially compromise muscle performance and overall well-being among older adults, it is crucial to implement robust measures such as sunlight exposure, inclusion of vitamin D foods in diets, and engagement in moderate physical activity to effectively address this emerging concern.