Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Mogire RM, Mutua A, Kimita W, Kamau A
Published in The Lancet Global Health
Abstract
Comprehensive review examining vitamin D deficiency prevalence and its impact on bone health, including mechanisms of calcium absorption and bone mineralization.
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies reporting 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in children and adults living in Africa; random-effects pooling of deficiency prevalence at 25(OH)D thresholds of <30, <50 and <75 nmol/L.
Key Findings
Across 119 studies covering 21,474 participants in 23 African countries, pooled prevalence of 25(OH)D below 30 nmol/L was 18.5%, below 50 nmol/L was 34.2% and below 75 nmol/L was 59.5%. Deficiency was more common in northern Africa, in urban populations, in women and in those with less sun exposure or greater skin covering.
Conclusions
Vitamin D deficiency is common in Africa despite abundant sunlight, particularly in urban and North African populations, indicating that latitude and sun exposure alone do not guarantee adequate status.
Limitations
Substantial between-study heterogeneity; assays for 25(OH)D varied and were not standardised across studies; many countries contributed no data; convenience samples rather than nationally representative surveys dominate, so pooled prevalence may not be generalisable.
Supplements Studied
Across 119 studies covering 21,474 participants in 23 African countries, pooled prevalence of 25(OH)D below 30 nmol/L was 18.5%, below 50 nmol/L was 34.2% and below 75 nmol/L was 59.5%. Deficiency was more common in northern Africa, in urban populations, in women and in those with less sun exposure or greater skin covering.
Outcomes Measured
Vitamin D deficiency impairs calcium absorption and bone mineralization, leading to decreased bone density. Adequate vitamin D status is critical for skeletal health across all ages.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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