A new report from the International Osteoporosis Foundation shows that populations all around the world are suffering from low levels of vitamin D. The problem is increasing and will likely have negative effects on overall health and fracture rates in particular.
Vitamin D is mainly produced in the skin when it is exposured to sunlight and low levels of vitamin D often lead to increased risk of osteoporosis, hip fractures and, in severe cases, to rickets.
The main risk factors for low vitamin D levels highlighted in the report include being older, female, living at lower latitudes, winter season, darker skin, less sunlight exposure and dietary habits.
Reference:
A. Mithal, D.A. Wahl, J-P. Bonjour et al. Global vitamin D status and determinants of hypovitaminosis D. Osteoporosis International 2009.
Weblink:
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment