Establishing Reference Ranges for Vitamin D Levels in a Representative Population of Peshawar, Pakistan

BackgroundVitamin D deficiency is prevalent in Pakistan, yet there is no consensus on the optimal range for 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels. Establishing reference ranges specific to the population is essential due to variations in age, sex, race, and diet. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) serves as a surrogate marker for vitamin D deficiency. This study aims to determine the reference range for plasma vitamin D in a healthy population in Peshawar, considering various demographic and biochemical factors. MethodsA population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in four union councils of District Peshawar. Participants (n=200) aged 18-54 years underwent serum vitamin D and PTH analysis using ELISA kits. Data on sun exposure, anthropometric measurements, and dietary habits were collected. ResultsThe majority of participants (92%) reported daily sun exposure of 15-30 minutes and had a mean BMI of 23.598{+/-}3.988 kg/m2. Only 28% of participants were vitamin D sufficient, while 72% were deficient. test results obtained for the reference values were 6.43-45.0 ng/mL for the percentile range of 2.5-97.5. ConclusionThe high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency underscores the need for governmental and educational interventions to promote awareness and address this issue. Additionally, tailored nutrition plans are crucial to mitigate vitamin D deficiency in the local population.