Assessment of Vitamin D Levels in Children Attending Outpatient Clinics of Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a common public health concern worldwide. Various guidelines exist for defining normal levels, testing and supplementation, with no consensus. This study aimed to assess vitamin D levels in children aged under 14 years attending our pediatric clinics in 2024, to review testing practices, and to compare these with existing guidelines.
Methods: Data on all 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH Vit D) test results for children attending our primary care clinics during 2024 were collected electronically and analysed using SPSS.
Results: A total of 1448 25-OH Vit D tests were performed for 1346 patients; 55% were female. Ages ranged from 10 months to 14 years. Average levels of 25-OH Vit D. were 44.3 ng/mL (<2 years), 28 ng/mL (2–5 years), and 17.4 ng/mL (>5 years). Levels were higher in males than in females.  Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) was present in 57% of patients, including 108 (7%) with severe deficiency (<10 ng/mL). 40% had normal levels (20–50 ng/mL). 36 tests from 31 patients (3%) showed values >50 ng/mL.  High levels were reported mostly in children younger than 2 years (65%). No patient had clinical features of vitamin D toxicity. 
Discussion: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in Saudi Arabia, as reported in national and global studies. The current variation in practice underscores the need to develop guidelines tailored to Saudi Arabia's unique cultural context.
Conclusions: We recommend universal vitamin D supplementation for all children under 14 years, restricting testing to high-risk groups, and adopting a clear protocol for retesting.