14 Aug 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : A new study from Qatar has found that vitamin D deficiency was widespread among children aged 6 to 17, with 66% to 81% of participants recording deficient vitamin D levels.
Majority of Children Found Deficient
Researchers examined 364 children and grouped them according to asthma status and weight.
Vitamin D deficiency was found across every group, including normal-weight children and those with overweight or obesity. Vitamin D sufficiency was uncommon, ranging from just 1.1% to 6.5%.
Higher BMI Linked to Lower Vitamin D
The study found a significant relationship between higher BMI and lower vitamin D levels among children with overweight or obesity.
However, researchers did not find a significant independent association between asthma and vitamin D status after accounting for other factors.
Why Vitamin D Matters
Vitamin D is important for normal bone development and calcium metabolism during childhood.
Low levels can become a particular concern during periods of rapid growth, making adequate nutrition and appropriate medical assessment important for children at risk of deficiency.
Sunlight and Lifestyle May Play a Role
Limited sunlight exposure, indoor lifestyles, diet and physical activity can influence vitamin D status.
However, the researchers noted that their study did not have detailed information about sunlight exposure, supplementation, diet or physical activity.
Study Has Important Limitations
The research was cross-sectional, meaning it can identify associations but cannot establish that low vitamin D causes obesity or other health conditions.
The children were also recruited from pediatric clinics rather than the general population, so the findings may not represent every child in Qatar or elsewhere.
What Parents Should Know
The findings highlight the importance of recognising vitamin D deficiency in children, particularly those with risk factors.
Parents should not give children high-dose vitamin D supplements without medical advice. Testing and supplementation decisions should be based on a child’s individual circumstances.