Evaluation of 25(OH)D Levels in Female Psychiatric Patients At A Tertiary Care Center

Background: 25(OH)D, a crucial nutrient for bone health and immune system regulation, has been increasingly linked to mental health. Deficiency in 25(OH)D is prevalent among psychiatric patients and may exacerbate mental health conditions. This study aims to evaluate the 25(OH)D levels in female psychiatric patients at a tertiary care center and investigate the prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency in this population. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving 100 female psychiatric patients. Data on demographic characteristics, psychiatric diagnoses, and serum 25(OH)D levels were collected. Statistical analysis, including one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation, was performed using SPSS version 23.0 to identify significant differences and relationships. Results: The mean serum 25(OH)D level among participants was 40.5 ng/mL (SD = 15.3). Levels varied significantly across diagnoses, with the lowest in schizophrenia (mean = 35.2 ng/mL, SD = 12.8) and the highest in anxiety disorders (mean = 50.1 ng/mL, SD = 13.5). 25(OH)D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) was found in 45% of patients, insufficiency (20-30 ng/mL) in 35%, and sufficiency (>30 ng/mL) in 20%. ANOVA indicated significant differences among diagnoses (F(3, 96) = 5.67, p = 0.001), with post hoc tests showing lower levels in schizophrenia compared to MDD and anxiety disorders. There was no significant correlation between age and 25(OH)D levels (r = -0.12, p = 0.18). Conclusion: 25(OH)D deficiency is highly prevalent among female psychiatric patients, with significant differences in levels across various psychiatric diagnoses. These findings highlight the need for regular monitoring and management of 25(OH)D levels in psychiatric care. Recommendations: Routine screening for 25(OH)D deficiency should be implemented for psychiatric patients, particularly those with schizophrenia. Further research is needed to explore the causal relationship between 25(OH)D levels and psychiatric conditions and to develop targeted interventions.