A study by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has found alarming levels of vitamin D deficiency among older adults in Kumasi, with only 6% receiving adequate sunlight exposure. Published in the October 2024 edition of the *Journal of Science and Technology*, the research revealed that approximately 70% of participants were vitamin D deficient, highlighting significant health risks for the elderly population.
Vitamin D, produced naturally in the skin when exposed to sunlight, plays a critical role in maintaining muscle function, bone health, and immune system resilience. Prolonged deficiencies can lead to weakened muscles, increased vulnerability to infections, and other health complications. The study attributed the high prevalence of deficiency to limited outdoor activity and insufficient dietary intake of vitamin D-rich foodsearch involved 125 participants aged 55 and above, all attending the KNUST Hospital. Blood tests assessed their vitamin D levels, while questionnaires gathered data on dietary habits and sun exposure. Additionally, body composition measurements revealed that 60.8% of participants were overweight or obese, and 48% exhibited reduced muscle mass. This compounded the risks associated with vitamin D deficiency, as poor muscle health is linked to diminished physical performance and quality of life habits further exacerbated the problem. Only 22.3% of participants regularly consumed foods like fatty fish, fortified cereals, or dairy products, which are vital sources of vitamin D. The researchers noted that combining inadequate diet with minimal sunlight exposure leaves the elderly population at higher risk of chronic health issues .
Led by Ibok Oduro from KNUST’s Food Science and Technology Department, the study emphasized the need for urgent interventions. Recommendations included encouraging more outdoor activities to enhance natural sunlight exposure, promoting the consumption of vitamin D-rich foods, and engaging in moderate physical activity to improve muscle health and overall body composition.
This rerscores the critical importance of addressing lifestyle factors to improve the well-being of older adults in Kumasi. Vitamin D deficiency is not merely a localized issue but a global health concern, particularly in urban areas where modern lifestyles often limit outdoor exposure. By raising awareness and implementing community-based interventions, Ghana can improve health outcomes for its aging population.
The findings have sparked discussions among public health professionals about the need for targeted policies to address vitamin D deficiency and its associated risks. For many, the solution lies in a combination of education, accessible dietary resources, and support for active lifestyle.
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