Incidence of Vitamin D deficiency in Pakistan is around 40% in children and mothers. In Lahore it may be worse because of high pollution index which prevents sun light from reaching the ground surface. Common causes of Vitamin D deficiency include lack of sun exposure, lack of healthy diet and lack of food fortifications with Vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency results in bowing of legs, repeated respiratory & other infections, body aches, fractures, once, hair loss, easy fatigibility and short stature. Vitamin D deficiency can be easily prevented by Vitamin D supplementation ad eating fruits, fresh vegetables and organic diet. Government should also take a firm policy to fortify cooking oil and other foods with vitamin D & other minerals also. Vitamin D deficiency can be easily treated with Vitamin D supplementation, adequate diet and Sun bath in Winter also.
