EVIDENCE OF CONTINUING DEPRIVATIONAL VITAMIN-D DEFICIENCY IN ASIANS IN THE UK

In view of the large Asian population in Leicester and the continuing uncertainty about the level of vitamin D deficiency in this group, a preliminary study was undertaken to review the results of all 25(OH) vitamin D assays which had been performed in the previous 2 years with reference to the ethnic origin of the patients. Results indicated that not only were more assays performed on Asian patients but also that these patients were significantly more likely to have low or undetectable levels of 25(OH) vitamin D. Over 50% of Asian patients screened had subnormal levels of 25(OH) vitamin D. Within the Asian group, women of child-bearing age appeared in substantial numbers amongst those who had low 25(OH) vitamin D levels. The study indicates a continuing problem of vitamin D deficiency in Asians which requires further study.