Vitamin D Deficiency Tied To Worse Outcomes With Early Kidney Disease

The worldwide prevalence and consequences of vitamin D deficiency are becoming increasingly apparent. Known to be associated with a myriad of acute and chronic illnesses including autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, neurological disorders, and others, a lack of this essential micronutrient is now recognized to be a global public health problem affecting all age groups.

Estimates suggest that at least 1 billion people worldwide have outright vitamin D deficiency, with around 50 percent of the global population having insufficient levels. In the absence of adequate sun exposure, research shows that, in children and adults, an intake of at least 800-1000 IU per day may be needed to achieve sufficient levels. The importance of ensuring an adequate intake of this micronutrient is further emphasized by a recent finding linking deficiency to premature death.

To read how, despite plentiful sun, researchers have found high rates of vitamin D deficiency in Africa, see this article on our website.