New study in Homburg: Detect and treat B12 deficiency!

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Find out more about the current study on vitamin B12 deficiency at the UKS in Homburg and how you can take part.

Erfahren Sie mehr über die aktuelle Studie zum Vitamin-B12-Mangel am UKS in Homburg und wie Sie teilnehmen können.
Find out more about the current study on vitamin B12 deficiency at the UKS in Homburg and how you can take part.

New study in Homburg: Detect and treat B12 deficiency!

How is the health of Cologne residents? An often overlooked but serious health condition could be vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause not only fatigue and difficulty concentrating, but also dangerous nerve damage. Homburg1 reports on a new study at Saarland University Hospital that aims to develop a risk score in order to better assess the personal risk of B12 deficiency.

The symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency are often non-specific, such as listlessness, tingling in the feet or an unsteady gait. Such a deficiency could lead to serious consequences, including irreversible nerve damage. Loud NDR In Germany, around ten percent of the population suffer from low vitamin B12 levels; among those over 65, the figure is as high as 25 percent. Older people and vegans are particularly at risk, as vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal foods such as meat, fish, eggs and milk.

Participation in the study

The study is looking for participants between the ages of 40 and 80. Those interested must have a blood sample taken and fill out a health questionnaire. Individuals who are currently taking vitamin B12 or have done so within the past five years are ineligible to participate. Professor Dr. Rima Obeid, who is leading the study, also encourages people with previous illnesses to take part. “The personal risk of a deficiency can be decisive,” she explains. Values ​​such as total vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, methylmalonic acid and homocysteine ​​are measured. Participants receive the results directly from the doctors.

Interested parties have the opportunity to contact Prof. Dr. on the telephone number 📞 (06841) 16-30711 or by email at rima.obeid@uks.eu. Rima Obeid to contact. The study is taking place at the Saarland University Hospital, Central Laboratory, Building 57, in Homburg/Saar.

The dangers of a deficiency

We must not underestimate the importance of vitamin B12. Loud AOK The consequences of a deficiency can have significant effects on our health, including anemia and sensory disorders that can develop over years. The most common causes include reduced absorption due to chronic gastrointestinal diseases, the use of certain medications and a purely plant-based diet.

For most healthy people with a balanced diet, targeted intake of vitamin B12 is not necessary. Nevertheless, the German Nutrition Society advises vegans to use dietary supplements. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also take special care to meet their increased needs.

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of each individual to ensure a balanced diet and to act promptly if deficiencies are suspected. If you have any questions about diet or taking vitamins, you should always seek the advice of a doctor.