Background: Vitamin B12 and folate are important micronutrients whose deficiencies are linked to a variety of complications. Gender differences in these illnesses are evident in epidemiologic data.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate and compare the serum vitamin B₁₂ and red cell folate levels and hematological parameters among healthy males and females. Data from medical charts were retrieved from healthy individuals aged 4–72 who received a routine medical evaluation in 2017–2018. Individuals with a history of illness, as well as those who had used medications or nutritional supplements, were barred from participating. The levels of vitamin B12 and red cell folate were measured using Cobas electrochemiluminescence e 411 analyzer and hematological parameters were measured using Sysmex XP100 Tokyo, Japan.

Results: In total, 240 people met the inclusion criteria. There was a statistically significant difference in serum vitamin B12 (pg/ml) levels between males (mean=239.48 pg/ml, SD=52.40) and females (mean=258.35 pg/ml, SD= 67.26); (p= 0.017). Mean RBC folate levels were significantly higher in males (549.11ng/ml±54.94) than females (528.77ng/ml±50.26); (p = 0.003).

Conclusions:  Gender discrimination is observed in levels of vitamin B12 and red cell folate should be taken into consideration. Whereas men are more vulnerable to vitamin B12 deficiency as compared to women. It might be explained on basis of hormonal or nutritional effect. Genetic factors can account also for this.

Index Terms: RBC folate; serum vitamin B12; gender; healthy