# Vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women in India

## TL;DR

This study finds that most pregnant women in India have insufficient vitamin D levels, highlighting the need for supplementation and awareness.

## Contribution

The study reports high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women in a specific Indian healthcare setting.

## Key findings

- 61.9% of pregnant women had insufficient vitamin D levels (12-20 ng/mL).
- 26.6% of pregnant women had vitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL.
- The average vitamin D level was 14.3 ±5.2 ng/mL, indicating widespread deficiency.

## Abstract

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin involved in the regulation of calcium homeostasis and thus is essential for a healthy skeletal
system. The blood samples from pregnant females coming at the facility were tested for Vitamin D levels as a part of routine Ante natal
care (ANC). We report that 130 (61.9%) pregnant women had insufficient Vitamin D levels (12-20ng/mL) and 56 (26.6%) pregnant Women were
having Vitamin D Levels (20ng/mL). Moreover, the mean Vitamin D (ng/mL) level in pregnant women was 14.3 ±5.2 ng/ml. Thus, there
was a deficiency of vitamin D in most of the ANC mothers registered in UHTC. Hence, adequate supplementation of Vitamin D is needed
during pregnancy. Lack of awareness is the major risk factors associated with Vitamin D insufficiency.