Symposium on Vitamin D deficiency and its prevention at the College of Applied Medical Sciences

The university, represented by the Training and Development Unit at the College of Applied Medical Sciences, held a seminar titled "Vitamin D: Is There a Crisis?" delivered by Professor Andrew Witon from the Australian RMIT University. The seminar took place last Wednesday, corresponding to 04/07/1441 AH, in the Medical Clinics Theater. The event was attended by the Dean of the College, Dr. Mohammed Al-Sehali, college vice-deans, a number of male and female staff members, in addition to male and female students, and some interested individuals from outside the college.

Professor Andrew began his lecture by introducing vitamin D, its importance, and its natural sources, such as sun exposure, which accounts for approximately 80% of the source, in addition to dietary sources, which account for the remaining percentage. The speaker then went on to compare the rates of vitamin D deficiency in Australia, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, analyzing the causes of this deficiency and attempting to link these causes with the display of normal and abnormal vitamin D levels.

Next, the speaker discussed a number of published scientific studies that addressed vitamin D deficiency in Saudi society in particular, which constitutes a large percentage of Saudis, reaching 80% with vitamin D deficiency in both genders and of all ages. The lecturer then touched on the diseases linked to severe vitamin D deficiency, such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, some types of cancer, and infectious diseases.

In conclusion, Professor Andrew provided his scientifically based advice for preventing vitamin D deficiency, covering the appropriate timing for sun exposure, the types of high-SPF sunscreens, and vitamin D supplements in capsule form. He then opened the floor for discussion, allowing attendees to ask questions and make contributions. The discussion was notably diverse, particularly in the area concerning vitamin D deficiency in Saudi Arabia and its high prevalence rates.