Vitamin D Interference in Human Health

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble substance that comes in two forms: ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) or cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), generally found in some plants or synthesized in the skin through sunlight, respectively. Deficiency of this vitamin can contribute to the onset and worsening of various diseases. Hypovitaminosis D is prevalent in older individuals, but it can be present in any age group and is related to cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and metabolic diseases. Skin production of vitamin D is modulated by season, latitude, time of day, skin pigmentation, age, and use of sunscreen. Its active form, 1,25(OH)2D, performs various functions in the body, such as bone health, homeostasis, cellular metabolism, and regulation of the immune, cardiovascular, and skeletal systems. Currently, its deficiency is seen as a public health problem worldwide.

Autorentext

Vanessa de Oliveira Carvalho: Biomedical scientist with a degree in clinical analysis from FEEVALE University - Rio Grande do Sul/Brazil. During her academic and professional life, she has worked in toxicology (therapeutic drug monitoring), quality control, and clinical analysis in general. She currently works in clinical biochemistry.