Hypovitaminosis D in medical inpatients

Many hospital patients may be deficient in vitamin D even though they receive the recommended daily amount through their diet. Analysis of vitamin D levels in 290 hospital patients revealed that 57% were vitamin D-deficient. Twenty-two percent were severely deficient. Almost 40% of those with adequate vitamin D intakes were also deficient. Many hospital patients have conditions that can lead to vitamin D deficiency, including poor diet, lack of sun exposure, chronic diseases and use of certain drugs. Vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of fractures.