Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency and Comorbidities: A Review

Abstract

Vitamin D is essential for the maintenance of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, skeletal growth and various other metabolic processes. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in India is 50-90% in various studies. Factors such as low sunlight exposure, age-related decrease in cutaneous synthesis, and low dietary intake of vitamin D contribute to the high prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy which has emerged as a highly pervasive condition. Bone diseases such as rickets in children, osteomalacia and osteoporosis in adults are related with vitamin D insufficiency. Literature evidences show that low vitamin D levels are also related with increased risk of falls, fractures, muscle pain, muscle weakness, cardiovascular risk, diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), infections, and autoimmune disorders also. Adequate intake of vitamin D is necessary for all individuals of any age group. Sunlight exposure, food fortification and routine supplementation can only fulfill the deficiency of vitamin D. This review article emphasizes on the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, potential implications, and effect of supplementation on cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), autoimmune disorders, sleep disturbance and pain. In addition, the present review discusses the screening, treatment, and prevention strategies for vitamin D deficiency.