Evaluation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study and trend analysis involving 86,772 samples.

Abstract

BackgroundThe aim of this paper was to evaluate the change in 25-hidroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsIn this retrospective, cross-sectional and methodological study included 86,772 patients (18-75 years) samples who were admitted to the Izmir Dokuz Eylul University Hospital (latitude and longitude (Turkey): 27 E 09; 38 N 25, respectively) for various reasons and whose 25(OH)D levels were measured in the biochemistry unit between 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 (before and during the COVID-19 outbreak). A time series analysis of monthly averages for 25(OH)D was performed. For the purpose of seasonal study, the mean levels of 25(OH)D are grouped by years. Data were modeled in terms of 25(OH)D levels using the MATLAB Curve Fitting Toolbox.ResultsThere was no significant difference between the sexes according to 25(OH)D levels (p>0.05). 25(OH)D levels were significantly higher in the summer months and lower in the winter months (pConclusionsRestrictions, partial or complete closures, and curfews can significantly affect individuals' 25(OH)D levels during the COVID-19 outbreak. There is a need for multicenter studies with larger populations covering different regions to strengthen and support our results.