Doctors at Government Medical College, Almora, have raised concern over vitamin D and calcium deficiency among children. They say 8 out of every 10 children coming to the outpatient department for examination are found to have low levels of these nutrients.
Paediatric specialists said children’s daily routines have changed significantly. Many now spend more time indoors using mobile phones, computers, online games and television, while outdoor play and exposure to sunlight have declined.
Why the deficiency is a concern
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is important for healthy bone development. Doctors said a serious or prolonged deficiency of either nutrient can affect children’s bone growth. Severe vitamin D deficiency during childhood may also increase the risk of rickets.
Specialists said the issue is not simply about the availability of sunlight in the hills. Children who remain indoors may receive less exposure to sunlight than earlier generations, who regularly played in fields, on mountain paths and in other outdoor spaces.
Changing food habits add to concern
Doctors also pointed to changes in children’s diets. Traditional and nutrient-rich foods such as mandua, jhangora, green vegetables, milk and curd are increasingly being replaced by chow mein, burgers, momos, pizza and packaged snacks.
According to the specialists, an unbalanced diet may prevent children from receiving enough nutrients needed for bone development. The doctors said parents should pay attention to both daily activity and food choices rather than focusing on only one factor.
Doctors advise daily outdoor activity
Paediatric specialists recommend reducing children’s screen time and encouraging at least one hour of outdoor games or physical activity each day. They also advise including milk, curd, green vegetables and other nutritious foods in children’s meals.
Families concerned about possible vitamin D deficiency should seek medical advice, the doctors said. The recommendation is especially relevant for parents observing reduced outdoor activity or poor dietary habits, although children should not be given medical treatment without professional guidance.
Dr Sumit Jina, a paediatrician and newborn super-specialist at Base Hospital and Government Medical College, Almora, described the outpatient figures as worrying. He said parents should monitor children’s routines and diets to support proper bone development.
Conclusion
The reported deficiency among 8 out of every 10 children examined at the Almora medical college highlights the importance of outdoor activity, balanced meals and medical advice when a deficiency is suspected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What deficiency has been reported among children in Almora?
Doctors reported vitamin D and calcium deficiency among children examined at Government Medical College, Almora.
Q. How many children were reportedly affected?
Doctors said 8 out of every 10 children coming to the outpatient department for examination were found to have the deficiency.
Q. Why may children be receiving less sunlight?
Specialists linked reduced sunlight exposure to children spending more time indoors with mobile phones, computers, online games and television.
Q. How does vitamin D help children?
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which supports bone development.
Q. Which food habits have raised concern?
Doctors said foods such as mandua, jhangora, green vegetables, milk and curd are being replaced more often by fast food and packaged snacks.
Q. How much outdoor activity is recommended?
Paediatric specialists recommend encouraging children to spend at least one hour each day on outdoor games or physical activity.
Q. What should parents do if they suspect a deficiency?
Parents should seek medical advice if they are concerned about vitamin D deficiency or their child’s diet and routine.
