Severe Vitamin D Deficiency Linked to Higher Risk of Hospitalization From Respiratory Infections

London (News Medical) — January 20, 2026: A large study led by researchers at the University of Surrey has found that adults with severely low levels of vitamin D face a notably higher likelihood of being hospitalized for respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia.

Key Developments:

• Severe vitamin D deficiency is linked with a significantly higher hospitalization risk for respiratory tract infections in adults.
• Each increase in vitamin D levels is associated with a reduced hospitalization rate, suggesting possible protective effects of adequate vitamin D status.

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The analysis, which drew on health records from 36,258 participants in the UK Biobank, showed that individuals with severe vitamin D deficiency — defined as blood levels below 15 nmol/L — were about 33% more likely to be admitted to hospital for respiratory illnesses compared with those who had sufficient vitamin D (at least 75 nmol/L). For every 10 nmol/L increase in vitamin D levels, the risk of hospital admission due to respiratory infection decreased by around 4%.

Lead researchers say the findings support the role of vitamin D not only in bone and muscle health but also in broader immune function. Vitamin D is believed to play a part in regulating antibacterial and antiviral responses, which could influence susceptibility to respiratory infections that strain healthcare systems, especially during colder months.

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The study highlights groups that may be at greater risk, including older adults and those with limited sunlight exposure, and suggests that strategies to improve vitamin D status could potentially help reduce severe respiratory illnesses. The research appears in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and underscores the need for further investigation into how maintaining adequate vitamin D levels might support respiratory health.

Health experts emphasise that while this evidence points to an association between low vitamin D levels and hospital admissions for infections, it does not prove direct causation. Ongoing research aims to clarify whether vitamin D supplementation or dietary interventions could play a role in public health strategies against respiratory diseases.

Supplements and certain foods can help optimize your vitamin D levels. Adobe Stock.

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