Abstract

VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY IS AN UNNOTICED EPIDEMIC IN INDIA

Dasamukha Praveena*, Bodupalli Srinidhi, Gudibandi Naga Dharani, Bolla Meghana, Malapati Amy Blessy, Banavath Bhagya LakshmiDr. Apada Reddy Gangadasu and Dr. B. Thangabalan

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Abstract

The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is a significant health problem that has wide-ranging consequences for several chronic disorders. The findings of our extensive examination demonstrate a notable correlation between insufficiency of Vitamin D and a range of ailments, encompassing osteoporosis, osteomalacia, rickets, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular illnesses (CVD), diabetes, infections, and malignancies. It is worth mentioning that some patient populations, such as those seeking treatment for ear, nose, and throat conditions and individuals attending outpatient clinics to meet with experts, have significantly elevated prevalence rates of Vitamin D insufficiency. This underscores the imperative for implementing comprehensive screening measures and targeted interventions. Studies undertaken in India have highlighted the heterogeneity of Vitamin D insufficiency across different regions. Specifically, Kerala, a coastal state, has been shown to have a relatively low prevalence rate of Vitamin D deficiency among youngsters, standing at 11.1%. The observed regional variance may be associated with dietary patterns, namely fish intake, and geographical considerations, such as latitude. Moreover, certain demographic groups that are particularly susceptible to Vitamin D insufficiency encompass children, pregnant women, breastfeeding moms, and those from working-class backgrounds. It is worth noting that kidney transplant recipients are also identified as a distinct population with notable deficiencies. The occurrence of Vitamin D insufficiency varies significantly, with rates ranging from 11.1% to as high as 96.51% among different age groups and genders. The results above emphasize the critical need to address Vitamin D insufficiency through focused healthcare methods and public health interventions, particularly among those at a heightened risk. Enhanced comprehension of the geographical disparities in prevalence might provide valuable insights for developing customized strategies to address this pervasive health issue.

Keywords: Vitamin D deficiency, complications of vitamin D deficiency, Indian data.