Abstract

VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY AND RENAL FAILURE DISEASES IN SAUDI ARABIA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

*Mohammed Kuddus

ABSTRACT

Vitamin D is produced by skin exposed to ultraviolet B radiation (Sunlight) or obtained from dietary sources. Now the scientists proved that the vitamin D has preventive effect on broad range of health disorders. It is required not only for bone health but also for regulation of a large number of physiological functions and for better human health. Deficiency of vitamin D in individual occurs due to limited oral intake, impaired intestinal absorption or inadequate sun exposure and can be determined by measuring serum level of 25(OH)D. Vitamin D deficiency may causes decline in renal function which is directly related to cardiovascular mortality. This review article includes worldwide status of vitamin D level in population with special reference to Saudi Arabia and some general background of vitamin D, including sources, benefits, deficiencies, dietary requirements especially in renal failure diseases and prevention/treatment of vitamin D deficiency.

Keywords: Vitamin D deficiency; Sunlight; 25(OH)D; ergocalciferol; cholecalciferol; Saudi Arabia.