Vitamin D, Iron Status, and Anemia Risk in Moroccan Women
Author Information
Author(s): Zouine Noura, Lhilali Ilham, Godderis Lode, El Midaoui Adil, El Jaafari Samir, Filali-Zegzouti Younes
Primary Institution: Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco
Hypothesis
Vitamin D deficiency may impair iron bioavailability, leading to iron deficiency and anemia in Moroccan women of reproductive age.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is a significant risk factor for impaired iron status and anemia in Moroccan women of reproductive age.
Supporting Evidence
- VDD was significantly associated with reduced hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, and ferritin (all p < 0.01).
- Multivariate logistic regression showed that VDD increased the risk of anemia (OR: 7.17, p < 0.001).
- 78% of women of reproductive age in Morocco have 25(OH)D levels below 20 ng/mL.
Takeaway
If women don't get enough vitamin D, it can make it hard for their bodies to use iron, which can lead to anemia, making them feel tired and weak.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study measuring serum 25(OH)D, blood count parameters, iron, ferritin, and lifestyle factors among 463 participants.
Potential Biases
Potential biases from self-reported dietary intake and lifestyle factors.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and the sample is from a single region, which may affect generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 18-49 from Meknes, Morocco.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 3.19–19.28 for anemia risk associated with VDD
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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