Abstract
Objective. Vitamin D has a pivotal role in maintaining healthy bones and in the modulation of multiple physiologic processes. Vitamin D deficiency has become a global burden that affects all members of society. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlation of vitamin D deficiency with hematological and biochemical parameters in young adult college students. Hundred and fourteen students (77 men and 37 women) were recruited. Materials and Methods. The socio-demographic and clinicopathologic features of the students were evaluated using a pre-tested and validated questionnaire, and samples were collected for complete blood count (CBC), vitamin D, calcium, parathyroid hormone, and phosphorus measurements. Results. Vitamin D deficiency was more prevalent in men (53.2%) than in women (48.7%). Calcium and parathyroid hormone levels were within the normal range, and 26% and 22% of male and female participants, respectively, had low phosphorus levels. Vitamin D showed a positive correlation with calcium in men (r=0.3927; P=0.005) and women (r=0.4122; P=0.0566). Although, vitamin D status had no impact on most of CBC parameters, significant positive correlation was observed with eosinophils in women. Conclusion. Vitamin D deficiency is very prevalent among college students, therefore health education and public awareness campaigns on the consequences of vitamin D deficiency on health and well-being are required.