Webinar on Vitamin D Deficiency: Insights and Guidance on July 6

On July 6, 2025, Naruvi Hospitals in Vellore, in collaboration with The Hindu, will host a significant webinar titled ‘Vitamin D Deficiency: Myths vs Reality’ at 11:30 a.m. This session is part of a 15-part series under the initiative ‘Healthy India, Happy India’, aimed at educating the public on various health issues. The webinar will address the widespread concern regarding Vitamin D deficiency, which has been recognized as a pressing health issue in India, particularly affecting bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Vitamin D deficiency, often resulting from inadequate sunlight exposure, dietary insufficiency, or malabsorption issues, can lead to severe health complications. According to a 2023 report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), approximately 70% of the Indian population is estimated to be Vitamin D deficient, a statistic that raises alarm among health professionals and policymakers alike.

The session will feature several eminent speakers, including Dr. Kurien Thomas, a senior consultant physician and clinical epidemiologist at Naruvi Hospitals, who will discuss ‘Myths & Realities in Vitamin D Related to Bone and Mineral Metabolism’. Additionally, Dr. Pranita Vanjare, a consultant in Geriatrics and Internal Medicine at Naruvi Hospitals, will elaborate on the ‘Extra-Skeletal Manifestations of Vitamin D’. Dr. Aneesh Basheer, a professor of medicine at SRM Medical College Hospital and consultant at Naruvi, will focus on identifying ‘High-Risk Groups and Vitamin D Deficiency’. The discussion will be moderated by Soma Basu, senior deputy editor at The Hindu.

The significance of this webinar lies in its potential to dispel prevalent misconceptions surrounding Vitamin D and to provide actionable clinical guidance to attendees. As Dr. Thomas emphasizes, “There is a common belief that Vitamin D deficiency is primarily an issue for older adults; however, it can affect individuals across all age groups.” This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Vanjare, who notes that “understanding the broader implications of Vitamin D deficiency can lead to better management strategies, especially for vulnerable populations.”

The initiative to educate the public about Vitamin D deficiency aligns with global health objectives, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in their 2022 report on nutrition and health. The WHO asserts that “adequate levels of Vitamin D are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system and preventing chronic diseases.”

Participants who register for the webinar will receive e-certificates, further incentivizing attendance and engagement. Individuals can register through the link provided: newsth.live/HIHIUIE or by scanning the QR code available in promotional materials. As healthcare professionals continue to stress the importance of awareness and education in combating Vitamin D deficiency, this webinar promises to be a vital resource for individuals seeking to improve their health and well-being.

In conclusion, the upcoming webinar not only serves as an educational platform but also reflects a growing recognition of Vitamin D deficiency as a significant public health concern in India. With expert insights and clinical guidance, the event is poised to foster a better understanding of Vitamin D’s role in health and promote proactive measures to prevent deficiency within the population.