Skeletal effects of vitamin D deficiency

THE CONTEXT

Vitamin D deficiency impairs bone mineralization in children and causes bone demineralization in adults.

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Rickets causes undermineralized bones in children because of poor calcium absorption.

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Similar problems can occur with vitamin D deficiency during the adolescent growth spurt.

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Osteomalacia results from bone demineralization in adults, especially women with little sunlight exposure after several pregnancies.

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Vitamin D is essential for preventing and treating osteomalacia in elderly people. Evidence for benefit in treating osteoporosis is less substantial.

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