Vitamin D deficiency linked to premature death, study claims

Researchers from the University of South Australia have identified a link between vitamin D levels in the body and mortality. According to their findings, vitamin D levels of 25 nmol/L in the blood are one-quarter more likely to die prematurely than those of 50 nmol/L. The findings were published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.

The effects of vitamin D on health have long been studied. There is both compelling evidence that the substance is vital and outright disproof. Some scientists argue that this nutrient is essential for the immune system. Others refute its effect on the body's resistance to disease.

Australian scientists analyzed data from more than 300,000 people between the ages of 37 and 73 over a 14-year period. The authors looked at 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) levels in the subjects. All-cause mortality was recorded and examined.

It turned out that the risk of death decreased significantly when vitamin D concentration was increased. The correlation was most pronounced in severely deficient subjects, who had a 25% increase in the likelihood of death.

The study authors note that recent estimates show that up to 50% of the population may be vitamin D deficient - depending on geographic location.