The Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency among Adolescents and Non-Pregnant Women of Reproductive Age Living in Kabul, Afghanistan in 2022

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D is essential for maintaining calcium balance, bone health, and reproductive functions. Its deficiency has been linked to numerous health issues. We assessed the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among adolescent girls and non-pregnant women of reproductive age residing in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional study was carried out at City Medical Complex in Kabul in 2022. Overall, 751 participants were included: 62 adolescents (10–19 yr) and 689 adult women (20–49 yr). Vitamin D levels were determined using the immunofluorescence method, with participants categorized based on age, vitamin D status, and sunlight exposure.

Results: Overall, 67.0% (n=503) of participants had inadequate vitamin D status, while 33.0% (n=248) had sufficient levels. Severe deficiency (<10 ng/mL) was most prevalent in the 20-24 age group (22.5%, n=25), followed by the 25-29 age group (21.1%, n=30). Among adolescents, late adolescents (17-19 yr) showed the highest rate of severe deficiency (41.5%, n=17). The combined category of deficiency and severe deficiency was highest in the 35-39 age group (50.4%). A striking pattern emerged linking sunlight exposure to vitamin D status. Among young adult women aged 20-24 and 25-29 yr, 54.0% (n=60 of 111) and 50.0% (n=71 of 142) respectively reported no sun exposure, and these groups correspondingly exhibited high rates of severe vitamin D deficiency (22.5% and 21.1%).

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is widespread among adolescent girls and adult women in Kabul, primarily attributed to cultural norms restricting sun exposure. Immediate public health measures focusing on greater sunlight exposure and dietary supplementation are needed to mitigate this issue.