Vitamin D Deficiency in Rural Area of Gautam Buddh Nagar:An Observational Study

Abstract

Background: In addition to bone formation, mineralization,calcium and phosphorus metabolism, vitamin D is also involved in maintaining normal neuromuscular function. Vitamin D deficiency is a public health problem in our country. Its deficiency is widely prevalent in urban population. However, rural Indian population is perceived to be at low risk of vitamin D deficiency due to their lifestyle exposing them to more sunlight. Aim: To study the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in rural population of Gautam Buddh Nagar district of national capital region. Methodology: Consequent 80 apparently healthy subjects of either sex from both rural and urban background, with nonspecific symptoms were studied for their demographic profile and 25(OH) vitamin D levels. Results: 25(OH) vitamin D level was 14.96 ng/ml in rural group and 16.25 ng/ml in urban group. A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was observed in both rural and urban population of Gautam Buddh Nagar. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is widely prevalent in our society including rural India. Apparently healthy subjects of rural population particularly women with nonspecific symptoms should be evaluated for vitamin D deficiency.