A study conducted by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has revealed a troubling lack of vitamin D among the elderly in Kumasi, largely due to limited exposure to sunlight. The research, published in the October 2024 edition of the Journal of Science and Technology, found that only 6% of older residents in the city are receiving enough sunlight, which is vital for the body to naturally produce vitamin D. Consequently, the study showed that 70% of participants suffer from a vitamin D deficiency, which can negatively impact their health.
The deficiency is primarily attributed to insufficient sunlight exposure and poor dietary habits. Many individuals do not consume enough vitamin D-rich foods, such as fatty fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals, which worsens the problem. Vitamin D is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, bone strength, and muscle function. A lack of it can lead to various health issues, particularly in older adults, such as weakened immunity and impaired muscle performance. The KNUST study involved 125 participants aged 55 and above, who were assessed through blood tests for vitamin D levels and questionnaires that examined their sunlight exposure and eating habits. The results were concerning, showing that only 22.3% of the elderly regularly consumed vitamin D-rich foods.
In addition to the vitamin D deficiency, the study also uncovered other health concerns among the participants. Over 60% of the elderly were found to be overweight or obese, and nearly half had reduced muscle mass. These conditions can further complicate the effects of vitamin D deficiency and hinder overall health. Prof. Mrs. Ibok Oduro, the lead researcher from the Department of Food Science and Technology, suggested solutions to address these issues. She recommended encouraging more outdoor activities to increase sunlight exposure, along with promoting the intake of vitamin D-rich foods. Additionally, regular physical exercise was advised to help improve muscle strength and body composition. By making these adjustments to their daily routines, the elderly in Kumasi could significantly improve their vitamin D levels and overall health.
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