Impact of COVID lockdown: Increased prevalence of symptomatic Vitamin D deficiency in adolescents

Abstract

BackgroundDuring the COVID lockdown in India, which lasted for more than a year, all schools were closed and children were homebound. When the lockdown was lifted, we observed an increased prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency(VDD) in adolescents. We want to highlight the effect of home lockdown on adolescents, which can predispose such children to VDD. AimTo document the increased prevalence of symptomatic VDD in adolescents after COVID lockdown and to study the symptoms, biochemical abnormalities, and response to therapy in this subset. MethodsThis prospective observational study was done from November 2021 to May 2022 with a minimum follow-up of six months. InclusionsConsecutive children presenting with gait abnormalities, proximal myopathy, and pains, with documented VDD. Exclusion: Genetic, neuromuscular disorders, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, chronic renal failure, thyroid disorders and those on anti-epileptic medications and vitamin D supplementation in the past 6 months were excluded from the study. We recorded the symptomatology, biochemical abnormalities, and muscle weakness and followed their improvement after Vitamin D and Calcium supplementation. ResultsA statistically significant increase in symptomatic VDD in adolescents, in six months post-lockdown was noted. Thirty-one adolescents between 9 to 14 years were studied. All cases were relieved of pain and muscle power normalized in 12 weeks. ConclusionProlonged house arrest may cause VDD in adolescents. Physicians should consider VDD in adolescents with myopathy and pain after pandemic lockdowns. Supplementation of Vitamin D and calcium resolves most symptoms except deformities. Follow-up is needed until growth spurt completion for recurrence of symptoms.