The hospital analysed health records of 9,418 individuals, including 3,454 women and 5,964 men, across two age groups—below 45 years and 45 years and above. The findings show that 37% of the population had low vitamin D levels. Deficiency was recorded in 36.3% of men and 37.3% of women, with older adults emerging as the most affected group.
Doctors attribute the trend primarily to changing work and living patterns. The rise of work-from-home culture, prolonged screen exposure and spending long hours in air-conditioned indoor spaces have sharply reduced routine sunlight exposure, the body’s natural source of vitamin D.
“Human physiology evolved for open environments,” said Dr Gaurav Shailgaonkar, Consultant Quality Chief at the hospital. “Earlier generations were engaged in outdoor labour and physical activity. Today, most people work inside offices or homes, which has a direct impact on vitamin D synthesis.”
The concern is no longer limited to adults. Physicians noted a visible increase in deficiency among children, linked to reduced outdoor play and excessive use of mobile phones, gaming devices and social media.
Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone strength. Its deficiency can lead to brittle bones, higher fracture risk and osteoporosis, particularly among post-menopausal women. Doctors also associate low levels with fatigue, hair fall, mood changes and depression.
Health experts recommend 15 to 20 minutes of daily morning sunlight exposure. When this is not feasible, dietary sources such as milk, cheese, millets and tofu can help, but supplements should be taken only after medical testing and professional advice.
Beyond vitamin D, the study flagged other alarming trends. Vitamin B12 deficiency was found in 13.6% of men and 9.3% of women. Anaemia continued to disproportionately affect women, while nearly 30% of the population showed signs of pre-diabetes—an early but reversible stage. Diabetes, thyroid disorders and kidney-related abnormalities were also more common among older adults.
Hospital Executive Director Dr Santosh Shetty said the findings underline the need for preventive healthcare. “Early diagnosis and lifestyle correction are critical. Without intervention, the city could face a surge in bone, metabolic and mental health disorders in the coming years,” he warned.
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