Vitamin D: determinants of status, indications for testing and knowledge in a convenience sample of Irish adults

Vitamin D deficiency is common in Irish adults, though there is limited research on its determinants, knowledge of vitamin D or indications for testing. We aimed to explore the determinants of vitamin D status in adults and examine knowledge and reasons for testing. The study population comprised adults who had serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D tested by general practitioners request at a Dublin Hospital in 2020. Questionnaires detailing dietary intake, sun exposure, ethnicity, biophysical factors and vitamin D knowledge were sent to a sample stratified by age, sex and vitamin D status. In total, there were 383 participants, mean age 56 center dot 0 (sd 16 center dot 6) years. Wintertime deficiency disproportionally affected non-white v. white (60 % v. 24 %, P < 0 center dot 001). The greatest predictors of deficiency were low vitamin D intake (< 10 mu g/d) (P < 0 center dot 001) and non-white ethnicity (P = 0 center dot 006), followed by sun avoidance (P = 0 center dot 022). It was also more prevalent in those with lower body exposure when outdoors. The majority (86 %) identified vitamin D as important for bone health. However, 40 % were tested for non-clinical indications and half were not aware of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Low vitamin D intake was the most important determinant of deficiency, but ethnicity and sun exposure habits were also significant predictors. The majority had no clear indication for testing and were not aware of the RDA. Public health policies to improve knowledge and vitamin D intake, especially for those of non-white ethnicity and with reduced sun exposure, should be considered.

Automated summary

Vitamin D deficiency is common in Irish adults, with wintertime disproportionately affecting non-white individuals. Low vitamin D intake, non-white ethnicity, and sun avoidance are significant predictors of deficiency. Many individuals were tested for non-clinical indications and were not aware of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Public health policies are needed to improve knowledge and vitamin D intake, especially among non-white individuals and those with reduced sun exposure.