The American Public Health Association (APHA) recently adopted 12 new polices associated with public health issues, with vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency as a leading concern. APHA’s new policies, approved during their 136th Annual Meeting in San Diego, seek to support the major public health concerns for both children and adults in the U.S. Popular dietary supplement brand Nature Made claims it anticipated this public health threat four years ago and responded to the growing body of science and public health concerns regarding vitamin D deficiency by being the first company to increase the amount and potency of vitamin D offered in its products.

Researchers have estimated that nearly half (40-50%) of adults and more than 30% of children in the U.S. are at risk of vitamin D deficiency. And, according to APHA, black Americans are at the highest risk for vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiencies are also more common in those who are over the age of 50, get very little sun exposure, have lactose intolerance, are vegan, or infants who are fed only breast milk.

APHA’s focus on vitamin D deficiency as a top public health issue is supported by other leading health care organizations. In the past year, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Dermatology have all issued position statements or communication efforts stressing the need for increased intake of vitamin D.

In addition to the importance of vitamin D intake for bone health, recent research shows optimum levels have been linked to maintaining colon, breast, prostate and ovarian health, benefiting heart health and colorectal health, and enhancing immune system strength in adults. The best source of natural vitamin D is sunlight, yet many people don’t get the needed 10 to 15 minutes of exposure without sunscreen a couple of times a week. Vitamin D is naturally found in butter, eggs, and fish liver oils, as well as fortified foods like milk and cereal. Since it is difficult for most people to meet their vitamin D needs through foods and sunlight, vitamin D supplements are extremely important.