Vitamin D and Insulin Action in Middle Eastern and Caucasian Ethnicities
Author Information
Author(s): Dhaher Nadine Fadhel, Wändell Per, Bennet Louise
Primary Institution: Lund University
Hypothesis
What are the differences in Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels across Middle Eastern and Caucasian ethnicities, and how do these affect insulin action and secretion?
Conclusion
The ethnic differences in insulin action could be explained by differences in the levels of Vitamin D.
Supporting Evidence
- 92% of the Iraqi-born individuals had Vitamin D levels below 50 nmol/L.
- The mean levels of PTH were higher in Iraqi-born compared to native Swedish-born individuals.
- Insulin sensitivity was lower in Iraqi-born individuals but differences were not significant after adjusting for Vitamin D.
Takeaway
This study found that people from the Middle East living in Sweden have lower Vitamin D levels and higher parathyroid hormone levels compared to Swedish people, which affects their insulin action.
Methodology
Vitamin D and PTH levels were assessed in a population-based cohort of 918 participants using multiple regression analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data on dietary habits and lifestyle.
Limitations
The study lacked information on sun exposure and dietary intake of Vitamin D supplements.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 469 Iraqi-born and 449 Swedish-born individuals aged 30–75 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI −.163 to −.007
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website