The Epidemiological Burden of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Males Across the Life Course: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

• Mustafa Mohamed Drah

  Faculty of Medical Science, University of Misrata, Libya

  Author

• Fathia Eessa Faid

  Faculty of Health Science, Nutrition Department, University of Misurata, Misurata, Libya

  Author

Background:  Vitamin D deficiency is a global public health concern, yet detailed epidemiological data focusing exclusively on males across all age groups remains limited in the Middle East and North Africa region.  Objective:  To determine the prevalence rate of vitamin D deficiency among males and analyze its variation across four main age categories.  Methods:  A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 868 males ranging from infants (0 years) to elderly (95 years). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were measured and classified as: severe deficiency (<10 ng/mL), deficiency (10–<20 ng/mL), insufficiency (20–<30 ng/mL), and sufficiency (≥30 ng/mL).  Results:  The mean vitamin D level in the sample was 17.89 ± 12.52 ng/mL. Results showed an epidemic prevalence of deficiency, with clinical deficiency (<20 ng/mL) at 59.1% (*n* = 513), and 26.5% (*n* = 230) had severe deficiency (<10 ng/mL). The elderly group (≥65 years) was most affected, with a clinical deficiency rate of 64.5%, followed by children and adolescents (<18 years) at 59.4%. No statistically significant difference was found between age groups, χ² (3) = 2.85, *p* = .416.  Conclusion:  Vitamin D deficiency represents a substantial health burden affecting males at all life stages, with peak risk at both ends of the age spectrum. Findings call for comprehensive preventive strategies including food fortification and routine screening for males regardless of age. 

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