Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal (Apr 2011)

Vitamin D Status in Pregnant Omanis A disturbingly high proportion of patients with low vitamin D stores

  • Moza Al Kalbani,
  • Omayma Elshafie,
  • Mohammed Rawahi,
  • Ali Al-Mamari,
  • Abdullah Al-Zakwani,
  • Nicholas Woodhouse

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 1
pp. 52 – 55

Abstract

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Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the vitamin D status of pregnant Omanis by measurement of their circulating 25 hydroxy vitamin D levels. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from a cohort of 103 consecutive healthy pregnant Omanis at the Armed Forces Hospital, Muscat, on their first antenatal visit. The study took place in May, June and July 2010. Results: Vitamin D deficiency was present in 34 (33%) of patients (25OHD3 75 nmol/L. Conclusion: If confirmed, these findings indicate the need for vitamin D replacement during pregnancy and lactation. Although not evidence based we recommend at least 1000 IU of cholecalciferol, (vitamin D3) daily.

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