Abstract

Introduction: Vitamin D belongs to a group of fat-soluble secosteroids which helps in increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate, and zinc. In humans, vitamin D3 (also known as cholecalciferol) and vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) are important compounds. Cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol can be ingested from the diet and from supplements.
Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study of postmenopausal women attending gynaec OPD department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kakatiya Medical College and MGM hospital, Warangal from1^st October 2021 to 30^th September 2022 (1 year). Apparently healthy postmenopausal women without any prolonged medical illness like diabetes, thyroid, hepato-renal disease, malignancy, or without any surgical illness were selected. Besides patients on HRT, steroids, bisphosphonates or any drugs affecting bone metabolism, smokers and alcoholics were excluded.
Results: Out of total 206 postmenopausal women attending gynaec OPD during the study period, only 122 women were found eligible for study after satisfying inclusion-exclusion criteria. We divided these postmenopausal women according to their age into five years age-groups, starting from 50 years to 70 years of age. Most common age-group was 55-60 years accounting for 49% followed by 50-55 years age-group making 41%, thus together adding up to 90% of study population. This shows the authenticity of study population. Mean age of study group was 56.9 years.
Conclusion: There is high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among Indian postmenopausal women, but our study shows no correlation between hypovitaminosis D and fasting blood sugar. Besides, the cut-off level for vitamin D deficiency should be reviewed in Indian population looking at the scenario of adequate sunlight exposure, to prevent it from overtreatment and also for dietary modification. The role of bioavailable 25(OH) vitamin D should be ascertained.