Vitamin D deficiency in adult fracture patients: prevalence and risk factors
Abstract
PURPOSE: Although vitamin D levels are not routinely monitored in outpatient fracture patients, identification of fracture patients with a deficient vitamin D status may be clinically relevant because of the potential role of vitamin D in fracture healing. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for vitamin D deficiency in non-operatively treated adult fracture patients.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: Vitamin D levels were determined in a cross-sectional study of adult patients, who were treated non-operatively for a fracture of the upper or lower extremity in the outpatient clinic of a level 1 trauma center, during one calendar year. Potential risk factors for (severe) vitamin D deficiency were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS: A total of 208 men and 319 women with a mean age of 49.7 years (SD 19.9) were included. In this population, 71 % had a serum calcidiol <75 nmol/L, 40 % were vitamin D deficient (serum calcidiol <50 nmol/L) and 11 % were severely vitamin D deficient (serum calcidiol <25 nmol/L). Smoking and season (winter and spring) were independent risk factors for vitamin D deficiency. An increasing age, a non-Caucasian skin type, winter and smoking were identified as independent risk factors for severe vitamin D deficiency. The use of vitamin D, alcohol consumption and higher average daily sun exposure were independent protective factors against (severe) vitamin D deficiency.
CONCLUSION: Given the potential role of…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 319 participants or records.
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