Vitamin D deficiency in multicultural primary care: a case series of 299 patients.

Abstract

An increase in diagnoses of vitamin D deficiency prompted a review of cases from four general practices. Of the 299 cases identified, the predominant patient group comprised adult Somali females presenting with symptoms of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Women of childbearing age were particularly at risk. Known at-risk groups were not receiving supplementation. Significant clinical need appears not to be met in this population group and consideration of vitamin D deficiency during consultations is warranted.