Dataset Information

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D status of the US population: 1988-1994 compared with 2000-2004.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations in the US population have not been described.

Objective

We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) to compare serum 25(OH)D concentrations in the US population in 2000-2004 with those in 1988-1994 and to identify contributing factors.

Design

Serum 25(OH)D was measured with a radioimmunoassay kit in 20 289 participants in NHANES 2000-2004 and in 18 158 participants in NHANES III (1988-1994). Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from measured height and weight. Milk intake and sun protection were assessed by questionnaire. Assay differences were assessed by re-analyzing 150 stored serum specimens from NHANES III with the current assay.