Nutritional Assessment and Vitamin D Deficiency among adolescent Students in Almarj, Libya

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is a worldwide public health issue. Adolescents are most at risk of vitamin D deficiency due to lifestyle habits, growth phases, and dietary considerations. The purpose of this research was to document the most prevalent nutritional and hematological concerns in Almarj, Libya, specifically the vitamin D deficiency pattern and potential determinants.

Methods: A total of 140, 12–18-year-old students in Almarj, participated in the cross-sectional study.  The standard biochemical measurements for vitamin D, hemoglobin, and ferritin were performed and documented.  BMI was estimated from anthropometric data collected during measurements, and lifestyle, chronic illness, and physical activity data were collected through tailored questionnaires.  Data were analyzed statistically using a significance level of 0.05, in SPSS v25.

Results: The average level of vitamin D in the sample was 21.65 ± 7.54 ng/mL, and the average for males was statistically greater than females (24.26 ± 6.98 vs. 19.47 ± 7.57 ng/mL; p = 0.03). The average hemoglobin level of the total sample was 11.86 ± 1.86 g/dL, this was statistically lower in males (p = 0.02). Ferritin concentrations were significantly lower in females (p = 0.12). The BMI distribution data showed that a greater prevalence of females were overweight and obese (p < 0.001). Anemia that correlated with the perceived health of the subject and physical inactivity was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Anemic students reported headaches (52.9%), fatigue (55.7%), and tachycardia (44.3%).

Conclusion: Among adolescents, the documented vitamin D deficiency and anemia in Almarj is particularly concerning for females.Preventing long-term complications requires the use of public health measures centered on dietary diversity, supplementation, and increased exposure to the sun.