The Status of Serum Vitamin D among Nursing Students in Langeroud Nursing and Midwifery University and its Related Factors

In addition to the importance of vitamin D in the regulation of calcium and phosphorus, which have an important role in bone metabolism, it is defined that vitamin D plays a role in many biological activities, and its deficiency makes the individual become more susceptible to various diseases. Some individuals, such as medical staff, may be more likely to be vitamin D deficient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum vitamin D level and its related factors among nursing students in Langarud, Iran.

This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 88 nursing students to evaluate serum vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus levels in 1395. Vitamin D was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and calcium and phosphorus levels were evaluated by colorimetry. Then, a research-made questionnaire was completed based on age, gender, body mass index, sunscreen usage, milk consumption, skin color, sun exposure, as well as the type of coverage and physical activity. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, or Mann-Whitney U test by SPSS software (version 22) at P

The mean values of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus were 27.30±19.07 ng/ml, 10±0.29 mg/dl, and 3.47±0.24 mg/dl, respectively. Less than normal levels of vitamin D were found in 65% of females (29.74±23.11) and 73% of males (25.26±14.86), and there was no significant difference between the two genders in this regard. There was only a significant difference between the type of coverage and level of serum vitamin D.   

The results showed that despite the normal levels of calcium and phosphorus, vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency were prevalent among the nursing students in the Nursing and Midwifery School of Langarud. In addition, it is needed to consider the increase of vitamin D a health priority.