Vitamin d deficiency statistics
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Global Vitamin D Deficiency Statistics
Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Worldwide
Vitamin D deficiency is a significant global health issue affecting various populations across the world. A comprehensive analysis of 7.9 million participants from 81 countries revealed that 15.7% of individuals had serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels below 30 nmol/L, 47.9% had levels below 50 nmol/L, and 76.6% had levels below 75 nmol/L . This high prevalence underscores the widespread nature of vitamin D deficiency, which has persisted from 2000 to 2022.
Regional Variations in Vitamin D Deficiency
Europe and the Middle East
In Europe, vitamin D deficiency is prevalent, with 13% of the population having serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels below 30 nmol/L. The prevalence is higher during the winter months, reaching 17.7%, compared to 8.3% in the summer . In the Middle East, the situation is more severe, with up to 80% of the population affected by vitamin D deficiency . This high prevalence is attributed to factors such as limited sun exposure due to cultural practices and dietary insufficiencies.
South Asia
South Asia exhibits a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, with an overall rate of 68%. The highest rates were observed in Pakistan (73%), followed by Bangladesh (67%), India (67%), Nepal (57%), and Sri Lanka (48%) . The deficiency is more pronounced in females compared to males, highlighting gender-specific vulnerabilities.
Low- and Middle-Income Countries
In low- and middle-income countries, vitamin D deficiency is a critical public health issue due to inadequate dietary intake and limited exposure to sunlight. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in these regions often exceeds 20%, necessitating public health interventions such as food fortification and targeted supplementation .
Impact of Latitude and Season
The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is influenced by geographical latitude and seasonal variations. People living in high latitude areas experience higher rates of deficiency, particularly during the winter and spring months when sunlight exposure is minimal. The prevalence in winter-spring is 1.7 times higher than in summer-autumn .
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups are more susceptible to vitamin D deficiency, including young children, adolescents, pregnant women, older adults, and non-western immigrants. These populations are at higher risk due to factors such as limited sun exposure, dietary habits, and increased physiological needs 46.
Health Implications
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with various health issues, including bone disorders like osteomalacia, increased risk of infections, cardiovascular diseases, and higher mortality rates. Studies have shown that individuals with deficient vitamin D levels have a higher risk of cardiovascular events and mortality 5810.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency remains a pervasive global health problem, affecting diverse populations across different regions. The high prevalence rates, particularly in Europe, the Middle East, and South Asia, highlight the need for effective public health strategies, including food fortification and supplementation, to mitigate the impact of this deficiency. Addressing vitamin D deficiency is crucial for improving overall health outcomes and reducing the burden of related diseases.
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