Vitamin D Deficiency in Older Men

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Abstract
Context: Vitamin D deficiency is not adequately evaluated in older men. Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and identify risk factors for its occurrence. Design and Setting: We conducted a cross-sectional evaluation of 1606 older men in the general community who were enrolled in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study. Participants: A randomly selected subcohort of a large population of men from six U.S. communities participated in the study. Main Outcome Measures: Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 [25(OH)D2] and 25(OH)D3 were measured using mass spectrometry. Results: Deficiency [25(OH)D 2 and vitamin D intake below 400 IU/d, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 86%. 25(OH)D2 levels were present in a small fraction of men and accounted for a low proportion of total 25(OH)D levels. The use of vitamin D supplements was reported by 58% of men, but supplement use had a small effect on total 25(OH)D levels and, despite supplement use, low levels remained frequent. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is common in older men and is especially prevalent in obese, sedentary men living at higher latitudes. Use of vitamin D supplements at levels reported here did not result in adequate vitamin D nutrition.