High Prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency with significant gender disparity among adults in Kerala: A Community-based study

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among adults (25–59 years) in Panniyannur, Kerala, and identify its associated risk factors. A cross-sectional analysis of 100 adults via a structured questionnaire revealed an alarmingly high overall deficiency prevalence of 65%, with a notable gender disparity. Key contributing factors included inadequate sun exposure, with 41% of participants receiving only 15–30 minutes daily and 78% having minimal skin exposure due largely to full-coverage clothing (74%); predominantly indoor lifestyles, with 73% spending over six hours indoors daily; and insufficient dietary intake, evidenced by 40% never consuming cheese and 72% never using supplements. With work schedules cited as the primary barrier to sun exposure (57%), the findings indicate an urgent need for public health interventions focused on promoting sensible sun exposure, dietary modifications, and supplementation, particularly targeting working women.