Vitamin D Deficiency in the Etiology and Progression of Noncommunicable Diseases

Dear Colleagues,

Nearly 50% of people worldwide suffer from vitamin D deficiency or inadequacy. The relationship between Vitamin D and ultraviolet-B (UVB)-induced vitamin D production in the skin is known, and this pandemic of hypovitaminosis D can largely be attributed to lifestyle (for example, reduced outdoor activities) and other factors that reduce exposure to sunlight (geographic and racial). Poor health outcomes, particularly non-communicable diseases including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and numerous other metabolic disorders, are linked to vitamin D deficiency or insufficient. Given that hypovitaminosis D is a standalone risk factor for total mortality in the general population, this is a significant public health issue. Recent research indicates that in order to prevent chronic disease, we may require more vitamin D than is currently advised.

Since vitamin D is a molecule that targets every tissue, is synthesized in its active form by a variety of cell types, is effective over a cell's entire life, and either directly or indirectly regulates the transcription of thousands of genes. Thus, vitamin D targets a wide range of organs and systems, including the adipose, cardiovascular, endocrine, and immunological systems, in addition to basic bone and muscle biology. However, many other links could be revealed, especially the etiology and progression of noncommunicable diseases in vitamin D deficient or insufficient conditions. To confirm the mechanisms involved in the etiology, progression, and management of illnesses with vitamin D deficiency, more in vitro, preclinical, and clinical research are required. Additionally, more research is required to establish a strategy from the lab to the patient's bedside, including the tailored medicine dose of vitamin D supplements, vitamin D with other co-supplements, vitamin D-drug interactions, etc.

This Special Issue provides researchers and clinicians with a thorough update on the most recent developments in vitamin D deficiency research from around the world, through recent research findings and reviews, into its mechanisms of action, causes of the deficit, proper supplementation, health benefits, and clinical applications for non-communicable diseases.

Dr. Rajesh Parsanathan
Guest Editor

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• vitamin D
• vitamin D deficiency
• vitamin D supplementation
• vitamin D receptor
• noncommunicable diseases
• obesity
• diabetes
• cancer
• cardiovascular diseases
• inflammation