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    Canada Year Book

    2011

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    Many have inadequate vitamin D

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    Roughly 3 million Canadians aged 6 to 79 (10%) had inadequate concentrations of vitamin D in their blood (less than 37.5 nanomoles per litre), when surveyed between March 2007 and February 2009. Of these, 1.1 million were vitamin-D deficient. Lower concentrations were associated with darker skin, as it is more difficult for people with darker skin to get adequate vitamin D through sun exposure.

    About 5% of men and 3% of women were considered vitamin-D deficient. The highest prevalence of deficiency (7%) occurred among men aged 20 to 39. When vitamin D is deficient, the body absorbs very little calcium. In children this can cause soft bones and skeletal deformities; in adults, osteoporosis.

    Nine out of 10 people had vitamin D concentrations considered adequate for bone health. White racial background was associated with higher levels, as was frequent milk consumption at all ages. Levels also tended to be higher among women. For both sexes, vitamin D levels were highest among children and seniors but lowest at ages 20 to 39.

    Chart 17.2 Vitamin D levels in blood, by age group and sex, 2009
    View data source for chart 17.2

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