Vitamin D Deficiency Crisis in Kerala: Experts Urge Daily Sun Exposure

In the sun-rich state of Kerala, an alarming trend has emerged: a significant portion of the population is suffering from vitamin D deficiency, which is being dubbed a public health crisis. According to recent studies, up to 90% of individuals across various demographics are experiencing low levels of vitamin D3, a critical nutrient for bone health and overall well-being. This deficiency has been linked to a myriad of health issues, including fatigue, muscle weakness, mood disorders, and compromised immunity.

The Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care (JFMPC) published in 2023 highlights that the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Kerala ranges between 40% and 99%, with most estimates hovering around 80-90%. This silent epidemic has gained further attention since the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many individuals faced prolonged indoor confinement, exacerbating their deficiency.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a public health expert at the University of Kerala, stated, "Vitamin D, often referred to as the sunshine vitamin, plays a crucial role not just in bone health but also in mental health. Its deficiency can lead to a range of disorders, including depression and anxiety, particularly in individuals who are less exposed to sunlight."

A case study of a college student, Aishwarya Kannan, illustrates the pervasive impact of this deficiency on daily life. After struggling with fatigue and low energy during her NEET preparation, blood tests revealed her vitamin D3 levels were critically low at just 20 ng/mL, significantly below the recommended range of 30-50 ng/mL.

Experts attribute this growing crisis to modern lifestyle changes that favor indoor activities over outdoor exposure. Dr. Sheeja Chandran, Head of Department of Agadatantra at Pankajakasthuri Medical College, emphasized the importance of sunlight exposure, stating, "Historically, people spent more time outdoors, which allowed for natural synthesis of vitamin D. Today’s lifestyle, driven by technology and indoor living, has drastically reduced that exposure."

Research published in the International Journal of Contemporary Paediatrics in 2025 found that only 8.62% of school children in central Kerala had satisfactory vitamin D levels, indicating a worrying trend among younger populations. The study also revealed a strong correlation between low vitamin D levels and increased incidence of depression, particularly among older adults and men.

Dr. Lisha C, an assistant surgeon at the Community Health Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, argues that dietary supplements could serve as a viable solution. "While a balanced diet can contribute, it’s often not sufficient to raise vitamin D3 levels significantly. Thus, supplements, when prescribed judiciously, become essential, especially for urban populations who may not have access to adequate sunlight."

The implications of this vitamin D crisis are profound. Not only does it affect individual health, but it also poses significant challenges for public health systems. Dr. Padmakumar, a local health policy expert, advocates for more comprehensive studies to understand the long-term effects of vitamin D deficiency and calls for policy changes that encourage outdoor activities in schools and communities. He emphasizes, "It is essential to rekindle that fondness for sunlight, as it can significantly improve our collective health outcomes."

In conclusion, as Kerala grapples with this growing health concern, experts recommend daily sun exposure of at least 20 minutes, particularly in the early hours, alongside dietary adjustments and appropriate supplementation. Ensuring that the population is educated about the importance of vitamin D could pave the way for a healthier future, one that embraces the sunlight rather than shying away from it.

**Vital Checklist for Vitamin D Levels:** - Common Symptoms: Fatigue, muscle weakness, mood changes, hair loss. - Severe Symptoms: Rickets, osteomalacia, risk of fracture, extreme fatigue. - Recommended Remedies: Daily sunlight exposure, a balanced diet, and vitamin D supplements as advised by healthcare professionals.

**What is D3?** Vitamin D3 is a subtype of vitamin D synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. Its deficiency can lead to significant health issues if not adequately addressed.