Shedding light on vitamin D: unveiling the intricate links with lifestyle, demographics, and biochemical markers

Rula Amr; Muhanad Akash; Ala   Qatatsheh; Amal  Mayyas; Hamzah   Al-Qadiri; Rand   Akasheh

doi:10.23750/abm.vi.16811

Authors

Rula A. Amr Department of Nutrition and Health Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Madaba, Madaba, Jordan; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5514-793X
Muhanad Akash Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, School of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan;
Ala Qatatsheh Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan;
Amal Mayyas Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Madaba, Madaba, Jordan;
Hamzah Al-Qadiri Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, School of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
Rand T. Akasheh Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA. Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Keywords:

Magnesium, Obesity, Public health, PTH, Smoking, Vitamin D deficiency, Jordan

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health issue, particularly prevalent in Arab countries due to limited sun exposure, cultural practices, obesity, and nutrient deficiencies. Research on its multifactorial determinants in Jordan remains limited. This study examines the demographic, biochemical, and anthropometric correlates of Vitamin D deficiency.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 385 participants aged 18–60 attending routine check-ups in Jordan. Data collection included structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical analyses of serum 25-OHD, PTH, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Multivariate logistic regression models incorporating interaction terms and subgroup-specific analyses identified predictors of Vitamin D deficiency. Model validity was assessed using calibration plots and the Area Under the Curve (AUC).

Results: Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 58.96% of participants, disproportionately affecting females and low-income groups. Significant predictors included advancing age (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09, p = 0.012), income <850 J.D. (OR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.14–3.60, p = 0.015), and heavy smoking (≥20 cigarettes/day; OR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.03–2.75, p = 0.037). Elevated PTH levels and increased body fat percentage were significantly associated with deficiency (p < 0.001). Male smokers faced compounded risks (OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.12–3.04, p = 0.017).

Conclusion: This study highlights the complex interplay of demographic, lifestyle, and biochemical factors in Vitamin D deficiency. Public health interventions targeting elevated PTH, adiposity, and socioeconomic barriers are essential to reducing deficiency and its risks.

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