Hypovitaminosis D among Adult Patients Visiting for General Health Check-up in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency presents a notable public health concern, with reported prevalence rising in hospital and community settings. It's linked to various chronic health issues and most often remains undiagnosed in developing nations. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D among adults attending general health check-ups at a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among adult patients visiting for general health checkups in a tertiary care centre. The patients' data from 16 April 2023 to 24 November 2023 was retrieved from the hospital record. Serum 25(OH)D was measured by using the chemiluminescence micro particles immunoassay technique and classified as deficient, insufficient, and sufficient with values <20 ng/ml, 20-29 ng/ml, and 30-100 ng/ml, respectively. A convenience sampling method was used. The point estimate was calculated at a 95% Confidence Interval.

Results: Out of 357 adult patients, 291 (81.51%; 95% CI: 77.49%-85.54%) Confidence Interval) had hypovitaminosis D. Among them 124 (42.61%) were categorised as vitamin D insufficient and 167 (57.39%) as deficient. The mean age of patients was 43.25±12.99 years, with 205 (70.45%) female and 86 (29.55%) male. A total of 169 (58.08%) individuals were classified as obese. Dyslipidemia was observed in 249 (85.57%) patients, with 94 (32.30%) exhibiting hypercholesterolemia.

Conclusions: The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D was higher than other studies done in similar settings. This higher prevalence necessitates public awareness of vitamin D's importance, urging proactive screening and management by physicians and implementation of cost-effective guidelines by policymakers.