Date Approved
2009
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department or School
Health Sciences
Committee Member
George Liepa, PhD, Chair
Committee Member
Yousif Khodari, PhD
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to determine serum 25(OH)D and PTH concentrations as well as vitamin D and Ca dietary intake in healthy pregnant (P) (n=48) and non-pregnant (NP) (n=70) Saudi Arabian women who reside in Mecca- Saudi Arabia. Age, occupation, skin color, smoking status, use of sunscreen, use of supplements, and sun exposure were correlated to vitamin D status. Dietary and supplement intake was assessed. Among the participants, 50.8% (35% P, 65% NP) women had 25(OH)D concentration that were ≤ 11 ng/mL. PTH concentrations were normal in 60.2% and high in 37% of the participants. Dietary vitamin D intake was normal, whereas dietary Ca intake was extremely low. Positive correlations were shown to exist between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and the use of supplements, avoidance of smoking, and the length of exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency appears to be prevalent among P and NP Saudi women.
Recommended Citation
Azhar, Wedad, "A determination of vitamin D status and intake of pregnant and non-pregnant Saudi Arabian women in Mecca, Saudi Arabia" (2009). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 221.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/221