Vitamin D Nutritional Status in the Middle East and North Africa Region: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Adequate vitamin D status is crucial for health, especially for skeletal health. The prevention of vitamin D deficiency disorders represents a major public health challenge in countries with low sunlight exposure. Nonetheless, several studies conducted in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have reported surprisingly high prevalences of vitamin D deficiency, despite high sunlight availability. Even in those countries, dietary and lifestyle recommendations, including nutritional fortification policies, may be needed.

Objectives

The present study aimed to systematically update and assess the vitamin D status in the MENA region using a meta-analysis approach.

Methods

This meta-analysis included 41 studies (2000-2022) evaluating serum vitamin D level

SUBMITTER: Machuron F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12666523 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature