Assessment of vitamin B12 & Vitamin D3 levels in Rural Population of Alwar, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Introduction - Vitamin B₁₂ and Vitamin D is essential micronutrient for body. Wide variation in dietary patterns, according to geographical regions as well as religious and socio-cultural practices results in altered levels of these vitamins in India. Deficiency of both micronutrients could increase risk for developing physical, mental and cognitive health problems. These vitamins are essential for cell metabolism and function, so a deficiency has significant effects on the body, especially organ systems with high cell turnover and metabolism such as bone marrow, the gastrointestinal tract, the brain, and the nervous system. Therefore, aim of this study is to measure valuable insights into the burden of these micronutrient deficiencies in a rural Indian community of Alwar district of Rajasthan, India.

Methods - This is an observational cross sectional study, a total 300 healthy subjects were included in this study. Estimation of vitamin D and B12 levels in serum was performed using chemiluminescence immunoassays on VITROS ECiQ Immunodiagnostic system.

Results – 84% of females and 78% of males have low vitamin B12 levels, 42% of females and 36% of males have low vitamin D levels.

Conclusion - Rural-dwelling Indians of Alwar region have high burden of vitamin D and B12 deficiencies, which is concerning given the potentially negative consequences on cognition, immunity and frailty in the population. Urgent public health strategies are needed to address this issue and prevent or mitigate adverse consequences.