An estimate of one billion individuals worldwide are afflicted with vitamin D deficiency, according to health industry insiders. New studies have highlighted increased insufficiency levels in South Asia and Southeast Asia, spurring concerned UK medical experts to call for strengthened health defense against the nutritional deficiency.
In a recent discussion with David C. Anderson, celebrated British medical expert on vitamin D deficiency of the published book "Vitamin D Deficiency and COVID-19: Its Central Role in the World Pandemic", he emphasized the global alarm for vitamin inefficiency and called for action to arrest the growing epidemic.
Anderson and co-author David C. Grimes stated in their book that, as two retired physicians with expertise on the subject, they bring "a century of experience to many aspects of medical practice and medical education... (including) the endocrinology of vitamin D, the prevention and treatment of serious infections, experience of previous pandemics, and a sadly sceptical view of present medicoscientific politics."
Published in July 2020, during the height of the pandemic breakout, the medical experts shared that they "came up against the neglect of first-line immunity provided by adequate levels of Vitamin D, critically important for effective defence against invasion by all new viruses and supported by science."
From various aspects of the said book, Anderson shared that they identified significant lessons for the future, including the "folly of relying exclusively on Big Pharma and the scientists it supports."
Growing Global Concern on Heightened Levels of Vitamin D Deficiency
While Vitamin D is often known as the "sunshine vitamin", playing a significant role in keeping our bones healthy, and also maintaining optimum health and well-being. Health industry insiders, however, point out the mounting worldwide concern due to the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency, which impacts an estimated one billion individuals globally.
Reported alarming levels in areas such as South Asia and Southeast Asia show a steady elevation of deficiency rates, spurring an urgent call to action echoed by concerned experts. These reports emphasized the importance of raising awareness and taking preventive actions and proactive measures.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) under the National Library of Medicine reported in its new studies on the global health concern of vitamin D deficiency affecting some one billion individuals -- with up to 80% of healthy South Asians having low levels. In contrast, 40% suffer from extreme deficiencies "despite advancements in technology and therapies."
On the other hand, Southeast Asia reveals poor vitamin D prevalence, with 18% to 46% in 129 studies, and more than 21,000 survey participants from 23 African countries. In India, NCBI reported widespread vitamin D deficiency, ranging from 40% to 99%.
The Relationship Between Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases and Vitamin D Deficiency
Autoimmune rheumatic diseases like lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic sclerosis (SSC) are characterized by immune system dysfunction that can lead to organ damage, reports the new NCBI research.
The studies suggested a link between Vitamin D levels and an elevated risk of developing rheumatic diseases, which could worsen the severity of these conditions. Assessment for these plummeting vitamin D level cases, especially in rheumatologic patients, also involves considering factors such as corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine, skin pigmentation, and sunlight avoidance.
The retrospective study underscored the incidence of Vitamin D deficiency among SLE and RA patients, underscoring the importance of evaluation and supplementation. Studies show that Vitamin D deficiency significantly impacts the severity and progression of diseases.
For instance, individuals with RA who have serum Vitamin D levels may experience worse disease severity, activity levels and functional limitations. Moreover, a European survey revealed a lack of Vitamin D among RA patients across countries, the NCBI research said.
Strategies for Managing Vitamin D Deficiency in Clinical Settings
The NCBI research suggested higher-dose supplements should be considered for vitamin D-deficient patients since it is "crucial to assess vitamin D status for all patients, regardless of their condition, and recommend adequate supplementation to avoid side effects."
The epidemiological research established a correlation between disorders and insufficient Vitamin D levels, a reason for increased consideration for using Vitamin D supplements to manage and prevent these conditions.
The study pointed out that autoimmunity rheumatic disease patients usually have vitamin deficiencies and need treatment for hypovitaminosis.
"Vitamin D supplementation, food fortification and variety are recommended for optimal health. Deficiency affects all ages and is linked to factors like time, season, ethnicity, region, and latitude," the research further pointed out.
The NCBI data focused on the significance of studying Vitamin D levels and how these affect the severity of diseases. They highlighted the significance of identifying the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and understanding how demographic factors relate to conditions.
The investigation results are vital for shaping studies on the role of Vitamin D in disease severity, development, and progression, which can significantly impact healthcare practices.
Key Takeaways from Experts' Perspectives on Arresting Vitamin D Deficiency
Among the key takeaways from Anderson and Grimes' perspective is identifying crucial lessons for the future, arguing the exclusive reliance on Big Pharma and the scientists it supports.
This viewpoint underscores the importance of diversifying approaches to healthcare, moving beyond pharmaceutical solutions and embracing a more comprehensive understanding of preventive measures, such as addressing Vitamin D deficiency.
The authors criticize what they perceive as the folly of relying exclusively on Big Pharma and its associated scientists, suggesting that a narrow focus on pharmaceutical solutions may limit the exploration of alternative and complementary approaches to healthcare.
As presented in their book, Anderson and Grimes' discussion of Vitamin D deficiency unveils a critical perspective on the oversight and, if not arrested, may translate into a full-blown global epidemic.
Their insights emphasize the importance of Vitamin D in immunity, particularly for vulnerable populations such as those in Southeast and South Asia.
These experts highlight a wake-up call for a more inclusive approach to healthcare, encouraging a broader exploration of preventive measures beyond pharmaceutical solutions, contributing to a more resilient and informed society.
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