The Relationship between Occupation and Serum Vitamin D Levels in Females during Summer in Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is a considerable public health issue affecting predominantly South Asians. Objective: To determine the vitamin D levels in females related to different occupations during summer in Sindh, Pakistan. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was performed at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro.  Healthy females (n = 236) were recruited according to different occupations into four groups: outdoor workers, office workers, students, and housewives. Results: Overall, 43.6% were vitamin D deficient, 28.9% were vitamin D insufficient, and 27.5% of females had sufficient vitamin D levels. Hypovitaminosis D was highly prevalent in housewives (62.7%) compared to outdoor workers (16.9%). In general, the mean vitamin D of all examined groups was found to be less than the optimal level, and significant differences were noted between occupational groups. Conclusions: The results showed that hypovitaminosis D is prevalent among Pakistani females. Moreover, occupations associated with reduced sun exposure may pose an added risk.