New nationwide initiative aims to promote safe sun exposure, regular screening, and early intervention for Vitamin D deficiency
In an effort to tackle the growing burden of Vitamin D deficiency in the country, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), in collaboration with global healthcare company Abbott, has officially declared June 21, the longest day of the year, as ‘Vitamin D Day of India’. The initiative seeks to increase public awareness about the importance of Vitamin D, commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin,” and encourage preventive measures such as safe sun exposure, regular health screening, and timely medical consultation.
Nearly 77% of Indians Have Inadequate Vitamin D Levels
Despite receiving abundant sunlight throughout the year, India continues to face a high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency. According to experts, nearly 77 percent of the Indian population has insufficient Vitamin D levels.
Health experts attribute the deficiency to multiple factors, including increasing indoor lifestyles, reduced outdoor physical activity, extensive use of sunscreen, urban pollution, and natural skin characteristics that can limit the body’s ability to produce Vitamin D through sunlight.
Vitamin D Deficiency Often Goes Undetected
Medical professionals warn that Vitamin D deficiency is frequently overlooked because symptoms may not appear in the early stages. However, prolonged deficiency can lead to weakened bones, muscle pain, fatigue, poor immunity, and other long-term health complications that significantly impact overall well-being.
IMA Calls for Greater Public Awareness
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Anilkumar J. Nayak, National President of the Indian Medical Association, said that declaring June 21 as Vitamin D Day of India is an important step toward addressing a widespread yet under-recognized public health concern.
He noted that doctors regularly witness the health impact of Vitamin D deficiency across all age groups and expressed confidence that the awareness campaign would encourage people to adopt simple preventive measures for better long-term health.
Experts Recommend Safe Sun Exposure and Regular Screening
Dr. Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director at Abbott India, emphasized that Vitamin D deficiency often remains silent but can have serious consequences if left untreated.
He advised that spending approximately 15 to 30 minutes in sunlight between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., depending on individual factors, can help the body naturally produce Vitamin D. However, he added that sunlight alone may not always be sufficient, making regular Vitamin D screening essential. Individuals diagnosed with low Vitamin D levels should consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment and long-term management.
Annual Observance to Promote Preventive Healthcare
The newly introduced Vitamin D Day of India will serve as an annual nationwide awareness campaign to educate people about the importance of maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels. Through greater public awareness, experts hope the initiative will encourage early detection, preventive healthcare practices, and improved long-term health outcomes across the country.
