A Study of 7.9 Million People Reveals a Global Vitamin D Deficiency Crisis
Dr. Kumar’s Take:
This enormous pooled analysis covering nearly 8 million people in 81 countries confirms what many of us have suspected—vitamin D deficiency is a global epidemic. Almost half the world has vitamin D levels below 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL), and nearly 16% have levels below 30 nmol/L (12 ng/mL), the threshold linked to serious health risks like osteomalacia. People in high-latitude, low-income, and Middle Eastern countries were most affected, especially during winter and among women. Now more than ever, prevention strategies like sunlight exposure, food fortification, and supplementation need to be at the forefront of global health efforts.