Vitamin D Deficiency in Children: A Silent Epidemic in Delhi

By Dashvanth Healthcare Medical Team · Reviewed by our specialists · East Delhi

The Delhi Paradox

Despite India having abundant sunshine, Vitamin D deficiency affects 70–80% of children in Delhi. Reasons are counterintuitive: air pollution blocks UVB rays, indoor lifestyles reduce sun exposure, skin melanin reduces Vitamin D synthesis, and cultural practices (covered skin, sunscreen use) compound the problem.

Why Vitamin D Matters in Children

• Essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralisation
• Rickets (soft, weak bones) in severe deficiency — bow legs, delayed walking, dental problems
• Immune function — Vitamin D deficient children get more respiratory infections
• Muscle strength and neuromuscular function
• Possible role in autism, ADHD, and mood regulation (emerging evidence)

Symptoms in Children

• Delayed walking or motor milestones
• Bone pain, muscle weakness
• Bowed legs or knock knees
• Prominent wrists and ankles (rachitic rosary at ribs)
• Frequent infections and prolonged illnesses
• Profuse sweating of the head in infants

Prevention and Treatment

• Supplementation: All infants from birth — 400 IU/day (breastfed) to 600 IU/day (1–18 years). Deficient children: 1000–2000 IU/day or stoss therapy (single high dose) under doctor supervision
• Sun exposure: 15–30 minutes on limbs, daily at 10 AM–2 PM — difficult in Delhi due to pollution and school hours
• Diet: Eggs, fortified milk, fatty fish — but diet alone is insufficient