A shocking new study has thrown a stark light on a widespread health issue that is haunting India. According to the report, a high rate of vitamin D deficiency affects an alarming one in five people. The authoritative meta-analysis, undertaken by the highly respected Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and the ANVKA Foundation, a public health NGO, paints a disturbing picture of a problem that cuts across population groups and geographical locations.
The report, named "Roadmap to Address Vitamin D Deficiency in India," published last Tuesday, presents a disconcerting picture of a country struggling with the effects of lack of sun exposure and poor dietary supplementation. Though the rate of vitamin D deficiency is shockingly high across the country, the ICRIER-ANVKA study identifies certain urban areas hardest hit by this ‘shadow pandemic.’ Vadodara tops the list of cities with a shocking 89% of its populace showing inadequate levels of vitamin D.
We spoke to our expert Dr Shrey Srivastav, Senior Consultant and General Physician, Sharda Hospital - Noida, as he highlighted a bleak picture of the nation's future health and well-being for its younger population, which could affect bone strength, immunity, and general energy levels. Here is what he thinks we must be doing wrong, while also explaining the possible causes of the widespread of this deficiency.
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What We Must Be Doing Wrong To Cause This Widespread Deficiency?
The question inevitably comes to mind: In a nation endowed with so much sunshine, why are so many Indians lacking the ‘sunshine vitamin’? Dr Srivastav cite an interplay of several factors that are leading to this pervasive health issue, including:
1. Urban Life and Decreased Sun Exposure
Contemporary urban life typically means spending most of the day indoors – in offices, houses, and cars. This significantly reduces exposure to direct sunlight, the main natural source of vitamin D production in the skin. Even when outside, pollution and the practice of applying high SPF sunscreens (although vital to prevent skin cancer) can curtail vitamin D formation.
2. Dietary Deficiencies
Although certain foods inherently have vitamin D, like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk products, the typical Indian diet tends to be deficient in adequate amounts of these foods. Vegetarianism, although a healthy option for many, can also restrict dietary intake of vitamin D unless careful attention is paid to consuming fortified foods.
3. Lack of Awareness and Screening
Most people do not have a clue about the significance of vitamin D or the implications of its deficiency. It is not part of routine screening to check levels of vitamin D, so a lot of people can be quietly suffering from sub-optimal levels without even knowing it until something starts to go wrong – often very non-specific and vague symptoms, like tiredness, aching bones, and weakness.
4. Cultural Habits and Attire
Cultural attire habits that expose less of the body can also restrict sun exposure, especially in some areas.
5. Limited Food Fortification
In comparison to some countries in the West, the fortification of staple foods with vitamin D is not so common in India, restricting a readily available source of this critical nutrient for the population at large.
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Easy Steps To Prevent Vitamin D Deficiency
A multi-faceted strategy, both on the individual and the public health level, is necessary to address this epidemic of vitamin D deficiency. Here are the expert-approved steps we can take to prevent and fight this silent health epidemic:
1. Adopt Reasonable Sun Exposure
Try 15-20 minutes of direct sun exposure on a large area of your skin (face, arms, legs) a few times a week, preferably at mid-morning or late afternoon when the UV index is moderate. Monitor your skin type and avoid excessive exposure that may result in sunburn.
2. Fortify Your Diet
Include vitamin D-rich foods in your daily meals. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources. Egg yolks, mushrooms exposed to UV light, and fortified foods like milk, yogurt, and cereals can also contribute to your intake. Consider consulting a nutritionist for personalised dietary recommendations.
3. Take Vitamin D Supplements
When dietary levels and sun exposure are low, or in the event of a diagnosed deficiency, talk with your physician regarding supplementing with vitamin D. The physician can dictate the dosage as needed and test your levels.
4. Give Priority to Regular Health Check-ups
Incorporate testing of vitamin D levels in your routine health check-ups, particularly if you are in high-risk groups (age groups, low exposure to sun, individuals with some medical conditions). Early diagnosis is possible so that timely action can be taken.
5. Encourage Awareness and Education
Public health campaigns are essential to inform the population about the significance of vitamin D, the dangers of deficiency, and practical means of enhancing their levels. This involves emphasising the significance of moderate sun exposure, food sources, and the option of supplementation.
Bottomline
The ICRIER-ANVKA report findings are a call to action. Fighting the widespread vitamin D deficiency across India is not merely a matter of personal health; it's an issue of ensuring the country's future health and productivity. Experts suggest following the above-mentioned tips to protect yourself and your loved ones for a healthier and brighter future.