The Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency and its Correlation to Obesity- Related Complications in Obese Children from West Virginia

Obesity is significantly associated with Vitamin D (Vit D) deficiency in children, and normalization of Vit D levels in children has been shown to improve obesity related complications including insulin resistance (IR). WV has been recognized with one of the highest obesity rates in the nation. In a retrospective study, the charts of obese children were reviewed. Fasting blood levels for Vit D, insulin, glucose, aminotransferases, and lipid profiles were collected and analyzed. Results showed that over 50% of our population were Vit D deficient (< 20 ng/ml) and over 80% were insufficient (<30 ng/ml). Vit D deficiency/insufficiency was associated with IR but not with triglycerides, insulin, or lipid profiles. We report for the first time that Caucasian WV children have a higher rate of Vit D deficiency than the reported national levels. Moreover, Vit D deficiency/ insufficiency was significantly associated with IR. We suggest that in each obese child, Vit D and metabolic syndrome should be assessed in order to prevent obesity related complications.