Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency and Its Clinical Correlates Among Adult Patients

Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency has emerged as a significant global public health concern affecting individuals across different age groups, geographic regions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Traditionally recognized for its crucial role in calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism, vitamin D is now increasingly associated with a wide range of physiological functions, including immune regulation, cardiovascular health, metabolic control, muscle function, and inflammatory responses. Despite abundant sunlight in many regions, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency remains alarmingly high due to factors such as inadequate dietary intake, limited sun exposure, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, aging, chronic diseases, and skin pigmentation. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among adult patients and examine its clinical correlates in a tertiary healthcare setting. Clinical variables including demographic characteristics, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, biochemical parameters, lifestyle factors, and symptom profiles are assessed in relation to serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations. Particular attention is given to the associations between vitamin D deficiency and musculoskeletal disorders, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and chronic kidney disease. Existing evidence suggests that vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among adults and is associated with increased risks of fatigue, muscle weakness, fractures, impaired immunity, and adverse metabolic outcomes. Early identification and appropriate supplementation strategies may contribute to improved health outcomes and reduced disease burden. The findings highlight the need for routine screening in high-risk populations, increased public awareness, and evidence-based preventive interventions to address the widespread prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among adults.