Gender-Specific Factors Associated with Vitamin D Deficiency among Korean Adolescents: Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey V (2010~2011)

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine differences in the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency between male and female Korean adolescents and to investigate gender-specific factors associated with vitamin D deficiency. Methods: This cross-sec-tional descriptive study included 975 adolescents aged 12-18 years who participated in the fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010~2011). Multiple logistic regression using complex sample analysis was performed to examine gender-specific factors associated with vitamin D deficiency with adjustments for covariates. Results: Among the participants, 82.9% had vitamin D deficiency. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was higher among female adolescents (88.4%) than their male counterparts (78.4%). A rural place of residence (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.19~0.87; p =.021) and daily milk intake (OR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.07~0.75; p =.015) were significant factors significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency in males, while body mass index (OR, 8.40; 95% CI, 1.05~67.04, p =.045) and having breakfast (OR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.10~0.49; p < .001) showed significant relation-ships in females. Conclusion: The results of this study provide preliminary evidence for developing effective strategies to prevent vitamin D deficiency in Korean adolescents. The different factors influencing vitamin D deficiency in males and females should be considered when providing interventions.