Vitamin D deficiency and abdominal obesity mortality study

Researchers from University College London and the Federal University of Sao Carlos conducted a six-year study involving over 5,500 participants aged 50 and older as part of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA).

The study identified a significant increase in mortality risk for individuals presenting with both Vitamin D deficiency and abdominal obesity. While Vitamin D deficiency alone was associated with a 91 percent increased risk and abdominal obesity alone increased risk by 47 percent, the combination of both factors resulted in a 123 percent increased risk of premature death.

Vitamin D deficiency was defined as levels below 30 nanomoles per liter, while abdominal obesity was measured by waist circumferences exceeding 102 centimeters for men and 88 centimeters for women. Scientists suggest that because Vitamin D is fat-soluble, excess adipose tissue may sequester the vitamin, preventing it from reaching the bloodstream and vital organs. Additionally, obesity may interfere with the enzymes responsible for vitamin D metabolism.

Coordinated by Tiago Silva Alexandre, the findings, published in the journal ‘Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism’, highlight the importance of monitoring both vitamin D levels and waist circumference in aging populations. Professor Alexandre noted that abdominal obesity is linked to inflammation and metabolic issues, while vitamin D acts as a hormone affecting various organ functions. Researchers noted that while the study shows an association, it does not provide direct proof of causation.