Hypovitaminosis D in a healthy female population, aged from 40 to 85 years, in the west of Ireland

Background: Increasing attention has been focused on diseases associated with ageing, as the mean age of the population in developed countries increases. Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone play key roles in calcium homeostasis, which is integral to skeletal health. Aims: To assess the vitamin D status of healthy, community dwelling, middle-aged and older females. Methods: General biochemistry and bone profiles, including ALP, PTH and 25(OH)D, were determined. Results: Of 143 healthy white women receiving no supplementation or bone modifying treatments, 47% were vitamin D insufficient (<50 nmol/L) and only 4% were sufficient for the time of year. There was no statically significant correlation between age and 25(OH)D concentrations; neither was there a statistically significant seasonal variation in 25(OH)D levels noted. Conclusion: Vitamin D status should be assessed more often in middle-aged and older females. Expected age-related and seasonal variations in 25(OH)D levels were not confirmed in this study.