Study: Lack of vitamin D linked to lung disease

A ten-year study at Johns Hopkins University found that the deficiency of vitamin D could lead to interstitial lung disease (ILS).

According to the study, it is a “relatively rare group of disorders” characterized by lung scarring and inflammation that could lead to irreversible lung damage.

An estimated 200,000 cases are diagnosed in the United States every year. The study said most people who are diagnosed don’t live longer than five years.

Dr. Victor Salcedo, medical director of internal medicine at Las Palmas Medical Center, said those with chronic lung conditions have an increased risk of ILS.

“Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency can be somewhat insidious. It could be hard for us to know that we’re not getting enough,” Salcedo said.

He said a family physician can determine if someone is at risk and check for levels to determine deficiency.

Currently, there is no cure or treatment for ILS.

The study concluded the following:

“Although the researchers caution their results can’t prove a cause and effect, their data support the need for future studies to investigate whether treatment of vitamin D deficiency, such as with supplements or sunlight exposure, could potentially prevent or slow the progression of the disorder in those at risk.”

Salcedo said protected sun exposure, supplements and foods like eggs, fish, liver and dairy can provide sufficient vitamin D.