Dear Editor,
Vitamin D deficiency has become a major public health issue in India, impacting people of all ages. While we know it is vital for bone health, emerging research shows that vitamin D is also key for our brain health, affecting everything from cognitive abilities to neuroprotection and immune responses in the central nervous system.[1] Recent studies have found a connection between low vitamin D levels and a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis. Moreover, a lack of vitamin D has been linked to more frequent and severe cases of stroke, epilepsy, and peripheral neuropathies. Even with plenty of sunshine, vitamin D deficiency is still widespread in India, largely due to indoor lifestyles, skin pigmentation, poor diet, and cultural practices that limit sun exposure.[2]
The amount of vitamin D needed each day varies with age. For infants aged 0 to 12 months, the recommended intake is 400 IU (10 mcg). Children and adults up to 70 years should aim for 600 IU (15 mcg), while those over 70 need a bit more—800 IU (20 mcg). Pregnant and breastfeeding women also require 600 IU (15 mcg) daily. Addressing vitamin D deficiency could be a straightforward and cost-effective way to improve neurological health. It is crucial to implement routine screenings for high-risk groups, encourage dietary supplements, and promote safe sun exposure through public health initiatives. Additionally, large-scale, long-term studies in India are needed to clarify these relationships and establish solid guidelines for vitamin D supplementation in patients with neurological conditions.[1]
Recognizing vitamin D deficiency as a changeable risk factor could have significant effects on preventive neurology and public health in India. Recent research has shed light on the concerning rates of vitamin D deficiency in India. A report from the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations in 2025 reveals some concerning statistics: at least one in five Indians is dealing with vitamin D deficiency. Among children aged 0–10, nearly half have faced rickets, and a staggering 80%–90% of older adults are at risk for osteoporosis. There is quite a bit of variation when it comes to vitamin D deficiency across different regions. For instance, in North India, about 9.4% of people are affected, while in East India that number jumps to a staggering 38.81%.[2] A comprehensive study involving Indian children between the ages of 5 and 18 discovered that just 42% had adequate levels of vitamin D. This means a concerning 58% were either deficient or insufficient. Interestingly, the findings also showed that urban girls experienced higher rates of vitamin D deficiency compared to rural boys.[3] A study from 2025 found that 34.3% of urban residents and 13% of those in rural areas were affected.[1] Another study found that vitamin D deficiency can vary significantly, with estimates ranging from 50% to 94% across different community assessments nationwide.[4] This widespread issue is largely due to limited sun exposure, poor dietary intake, and lifestyle choices.[3,4] The effects of vitamin D deficiency go beyond just bone health. Studies have shown a connection between low vitamin D levels and various neurological conditions, such as cognitive decline, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.[3] The role of vitamin D in protecting the nervous system and regulating the immune response highlights the need to maintain sufficient levels for optimal brain function.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to more frequent and severe migraines, and it is also associated with mental health issues like anxiety and depression through its anti-inflammatory effects and its regulation of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Key mechanisms include vitamin D’s role in modulating neuroinflammation, which contributes to migraine pain, as well as its influence on brain neurochemistry by regulating the synthesis and function of neurotransmitters in mood-related brain regions. Taking a proactive and well-rounded approach, backed by professional medical advice, is the best way to tackle vitamin D deficiency and promote long-term health. Moreover, healthcare professionals should be trained on the neurological effects of vitamin D deficiency to facilitate early detection and timely intervention. Conclusively, vitamin D deficiency poses a serious public health challenge in India, with significant consequences for neurological health. By acknowledging and addressing this deficiency, we can lessen its impact and enhance the overall health of the population.
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.
Funding Statement
Nil.
References
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