Vitamin D Deficiency in Subjects With Chronic Hepatitis C Compared to Healthy Volunteers
Vitamin D Deficiency in Subjects With Chronic Hepatitis C Compared to Healthy Volunteers
The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in patients
 with chronic Hepatitis C compared to a matched control group of healthy individuals in the
 Sioux Falls area. It is the hypothesis of this study that vitamin D deficiency is more common
 in patients with chronic Hepatitis C compared to the healthy control group.
In this study, we will measure vitamin D levels in patients with chronic Hepatitis C and
 healthy individuals. This study will be important to assess vitamin D inadequacy in patients
 with chronic Hepatitis C and healthy individuals in this area.
Inclusion Criteria for Study Group:

 -  Men and women between the ages of 25 and 55

 -  Diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C

 Exclusion Criteria for Study Group:

 -  Taking a vitamin D supplement (by itself or as part of a multivitamin), a calcium
 supplement and/or biphosphonates

 -  Has acute hepatitis C infection

 -  Has chronic hepatitis B infection

 -  Had gastric bypass surgery

 -  Has chronic kidney disease

 Inclusion Criteria for Control Group:

 -  Men and women between the ages of 20 and 60

 -  Has a body mass index (BMI) between 20 and 35

 Exclusion Criteria for Study Group:

 -  Taking a vitamin D supplement (by itself or as part of a multivitamin), a calcium
 supplement and/or biphosphonates

 -  Has any significant illness or medical problem that is not under control or being
 controlled by medication

 -  History of hepatitis or abnormal liver chemistry tests

 -  History of intravenous drug use