Vitamin D deficiency cases on the rise; docs advise patients to get more sunligh

There has been an alarming rise in the number of people suffering from Vitamin D deficiency according to City doctors. In fact, seven out of 10 people who are screened for the deficiency are found to have it. 

A whopping 76.24 percent of women who were tested for the deficiency, were found to have below the normal levels of Vitamin D, according to a recent study by SRL Diagnostics. “The trend has been prevalent for over two years. “It is usual that people go to get their Calcium levels checked. However, what is more important is get Vitamin D levels also tested as it will help in early treatment if need be,” she added. Doctors say that minimal exposure to sunlight and other lifestyle changes like staying indoors all day make people more prone to this kind of deficiency. “Usually, we see people being completely covered from head to toe to avoid getting tanned. This will minimise exposure to sunlight and Vitamin D deficiency. Also, parents do not let their children play in sunlight, which will increase the risk factor,” said Dr Premalatha, director, Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health.

Dr Leena explained that housebound, elderly and women are prone to have the deficiency. “Even as it is the elderly among whom it is common among, the deficiency is not associated to any particular age group. It is also seen among men,” she said.
Symptoms mistaken

With symptoms mistaken to be those of other health problems, it often goes untreated. Vikas, (name changed) who is in his early thirties, went to the doctor with pain in the knee.

 He was asked to undergo a corrective surgery as Vikas was told that he had an issue associated with the ligament. Vikas was in for a shock when the pain did not subside even after being operated. It was only later that he found out that he was suffering from Vitamin D deficiency. Besides reducing calcium absorption, Vitamin D deficiency will also have an effect on immunity, functioning of the heart and digestion. While among children, it leads to Rickets, among adults it is osteoporosis that is seen.

 Various studies also state that the deficiency could be associated with recurrent infections and trigger asthmatic attacks. 

Dr Pramod V Satya, consultant physician, internal medicine, Vikram Hospital, said, “Usually, those above the age of 60 have the deficiency as they are home bound or their skin does not easily absorb sunlight. He also added that even the obese are at risk. It is a widespread deficiency.”

Dr Satya also added that the treatment method was relatively simple as supplements are available.

“Sunlight is the main source. Small parts of it is available in food,” he added.