Vitamin D Deficiency and Related Factors among Healthcare Professionals. A Cross-Sectional Study in a Tertiary Hospital

Vitamin D deficiency is a global health issue, affecting various populations including healthcare professionals. Despite their awareness and access to health resources, healthcare professionals are not immune to this deficiency. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin D deficiency among licensed physicians and nurses in a tertiary hospital in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2022, involving 1944 healthcare professionals (608 licensed physicians and 1336 nurses) at Shanxi Bethune Hospital. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-(OH)D] levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Participants' demographic data, body mass index (BMI), and job-related factors were collected and analyzed. Significant differences were observed in age, gender distribution, and BMI between licensed physicians (LPs) and nurses. LPs were generally older, had a higher BMI, and a higher prevalence of hypertension. The median vitamin D level was slightly higher in LPs (9.4 ng/mL) compared to nurses (8.7 ng/mL). However, both groups exhibited a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, with 78.12% of LPs and 85.63% of nurses affected. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified several factors associated with vitamin D deficiency. Age over 30 years was associated with a lower likelihood of deficiency (OR=0.68, 95% CI 0.50-0.92, P=0.013). Nurses were more likely to be deficient compared to LPs (OR=1.26, 95% CI 1.10-1.44, P=0.001). Lower-than-normal uric acid (UA) levels were associated with an increased risk of deficiency (OR=1.51, P=0.034). Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among healthcare professionals, with nurses being more affected than licensed physicians. Factors such as age, job type, and UA levels significantly contribute to this deficiency. It is essential to implement multi-level interventions including increased sunlight exposure, work environment improvements, and regular health check-ups to enhance the vitamin D status of healthcare professionals. Keywords: Vitamin D deficiency, Healthcare professionals, Cross-sectional study, Tertiary hospital, Risk factors, Nurses, Licensed physicians