Prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and associated risk factors among children residing at high altitude in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh, India.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin D is important for bone development in children. A high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) has been documented from different parts of India. However, limited data are available on VDD among children residing at high altitude region of country.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of VDD and associated risk factors among children in the age group of 6-18 years in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the year 2014-2015. A total of 626 children in the age group of 6-18 years were enrolled from 30 clusters which were identified using population proportionate to size sampling method. A minimum of 20 children in the age group of 6-18 years per cluster were selected using random number tables. The data on socioeconomic status, physical activity, sunlight exposure, and biochemical parameters of bone and mineral metabolism were assessed.

RESULTS: Ninety-three percent of school-age children were found Vitamin D deficient as per serum 25(OH) D levels of <20 ng/ml. The prevalence was significantly higher among females.

CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of VDD was found in children residing in high altitude region.