International Journal of Medical Science and Advanced Clinical Research (IJMACR)

Abstract Introduction: Micronutrient deficiency contributes to the hidden hunger. Vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin), a fat-soluble vitamin, a deficiency of which is highly prevalent in India. It is mostly underdiagnosed as well as undertreated in the Indian setting. Vitamin D deficiency majorly affects the musculoskeletal system, and also, there is emerging evidence on its role in various lifestyle diseases, COPD/Asthma, Immunity, Mental ailments and Infectious diseases. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and management of this deficiency is very important. Objective a) To assess the Health Care Professionals Practice of screening and supplementation for Vitamin D deficiency. b) To assess the Health Care Professionals Perspectives regarding empirical Vitamin D Supplementation Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of 3 months among the health care professionals of Mysuru. Using convenience sampling technique, a sample of 169 study subjects were included in the study. Data was collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire shared via google form. Data analysis was done using SPSS v 25. Results: Among the 177 study participants, the mean age was 39.3 ± 10.6 years. Majority of them i.e. 108 (61.01%) were Males. 31.07 % study participants commonly screened patients with osteoporosis / recurrent fractures for vitamin D deficiency. 58.19% study participants commonly practiced empirical Vitamin D supplementation in elderly followed by 50.28% in infants and 49.71% in those who stay mostly indoors / minimal sunlight exposure. Out of 177 study participants, 98 (55.37%) were of the opinion that routine Vitamin D supplementation to general population would not be beneficial. Conclusion: In the present study screening for Vitamin D deficiency was commonly practiced among patients with osteoporosis / recurrent fractures, chronic kidney/liver disease and post-menopausal women. Empirical Vitamin D supplementation was practiced majorly among elderly population and infants. There is a need to update the health care professional’s knowledge of vitamin D screening and supplementation especially in the risk groups as per the guidelines