Vitamin D Deficiency and its Clinical Implications in Adults

Background: Vitamin D plays a vital role in skeletal health, calcium metabolism, and immunological functions. Despite abundant sunlight in South Asia, deficiency has emerged as a significant public health concern, leading to musculoskeletal, metabolic, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Objective: To determine the prevalence and clinical implications of Vitamin D deficiency among adults attending Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months among 50 adult patients. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were measured. Sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and clinical symptoms were assessed using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Among the participants, 76% were Vitamin D deficient (<20 ng/mL), 16% insufficient (20–29 ng/mL), and only 8% sufficient (≥30 ng/mL). Deficiency was more prevalent among females (83.3%) than males (65%) and higher in urban residents (79.4%) compared to rural (68.7%). Common clinical manifestations included generalized weakness (70%), bone pain (62%), and muscle cramps (54%). Socioeconomic disparities showed higher deficiency among low-income groups (91.7%). Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among Bangladeshi adults, with significant clinical manifestations and sociodemographic associations. Urgent public health interventions, including awareness programs, supplementation, and dietary fortification, are needed to address this neglected yet critical health issue.