Vitamin D in Asia

Nutrition and Lifestyle Effects on Vitamin D Status

“…In particular veiling, in which Muslim women wear modest, concealing clothing, is associated with lower vitamin D status (Table 54.6) in any season measured. Veiling is a plausible explanation for low vitamin D status in India where rickets has been found to be three to four times more common in the children of Muslims than Hindus, the latter group wearing less concealing veils than the former [77]. Not all studies show a difference in vitamin D status with veiling; among Bangladeshi women living in Dhaka, no difference in 25(OH)D concentrations was reported between veiled and nonveiled women (Table 54.6).…”

“…When concealing clothing is worn most of the time, as illustrated in Table 54.1, a considerable amount of dietary vitamin D is needed to prevent deficiency. In many tropical countries it had been assumed that vitamin D is easily made in the skin, yet recent studies now show that commonly worn concealing clothing has a huge effect on vitamin D status [77]. In particular veiling, in which Muslim women wear modest, concealing clothing, is associated with lower vitamin D status (Table 54.6) in any season measured.…”

“…In some cultures, many people avoid sun exposure likely due to the association of a tanned skin with performing outdoor chores or having to work at outdoor occupations, either of which would be indicative of low social standing. Most studies in Asia show levels of 25(OH)D that are surprisingly low given the year-round ability to make vitamin D in skin [77]. In a study of older residents of Hong Kong (>50 years), 62% responded that they did not like going in the sun, and almost half used a parasol to shade themselves from the sun [78].…”

Evaluation of a VERT-based module for proton radiotherapy education and training

“…10 In addition to technical process training, it can aid visualisation of 3D structures, dose distribution and treatment plans. Students can explore patient radiographic anatomy, practise decision-making skills and gain practical skills such as treatment set-up 11 and image matching 12 in a safe non-pressured environment. Training with VERT has shown that students feel more confident about working clinically after virtual experience with treatments.…”