Relationship Between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Lung Function Among Korean Adults in Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), 2008-2010

Context: The relationship between vitamin D status and pulmonary function has not been investigated for an East Asian population. Objective: The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] with lung function in Korean adults. Design and Setting: The analysis used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), a cross-sectional survey of Korean civilians, conducted from 2008 to 2010. Participants: A total of 10 096 people aged 19 years and older were selected from 16 administrative districts in South Korea. Main Outcome Measures: Serum 25(OH) D levels with lung function [forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC)]. Results: Serum 25(OH) D concentration was positively associated with lung function after controlling for age, sex, height, and season. For FEV1 and FVC, the differences between top and bottom quartiles in 25(OH) D were 51 mL (SE, 17 mL, P trend <.001) and 58 mL (SE, 20 mL, P trend <.005) greater volume, respectively. Association of serum 25(OH) D with FEV1 and FVC was only slightly attenuated after adjustment for body mass index, lifestyle and socioeconomic factors, and respiratory illness. The subjects with a history of pulmonary tuberculosis showed a much higher increase in FEV1; the difference between top and bottom quartiles in 25(OH) D was 229 mL (SE, 87 mL, P trend <.01). Conclusion: Serum 25(OH) D levels have a positive correlation with pulmonary function. This relationship appears prominent in subjects with susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis. (J Clin Endocrinol Metab 98: 1703-1710, 2013)