Population-based Assessment of Vitamin D, Calcium, Diabetes, Thyroid Disorders, and Anemia in Eastern Nepal Project Duration



Ongoing


One Year


Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC)


Selected districts of Nepal


Micronutrient deficiencies and metabolic disorders, including Vitamin D deficiency, calcium imbalance, diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, and anemia, pose significant public health challenges in Nepal. Despite abundant sunlight, Vitamin D deficiency affects 73–91% of the population in various regions, contributing to bone health issues and osteoporosis. Thyroid disorders, linked to iodine deficiency, impact approximately one-third of Nepal’s. Diabetes prevalence is rising, with an estimated 8.5% of the population affected, while anemia remains a critical issue, particularly among women of reproductive age and children.

Existing studies are predominantly hospital-based or limited in scope, lacking comprehensive population-level data on these interrelated conditions. This project addresses this gap by conducting a robust, population-based assessment in Eastern Nepal to generate actionable evidence for public health interventions.


General Objective

To evaluate the prevalence and determinants of Vitamin D, calcium, diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, and anemia in the general population of Eastern Nepal.

Specific Objectives

  1. To quantify the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency across diverse populations.
  2. To measure serum calcium levels and examines their correlation with Vitamin D status.
  3. To estimate the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and prediabetes in the study population.
  4. To assess the prevalence of thyroid disorders and explore their associations with Vitamin D and calcium levels.
  5. To determine the prevalence and severity of anemia, analyzing its relationship with demographic, nutritional, and socioeconomic factors.

Generate Nepal’s first national data on Vitamin D, thyroid, diabetes, and anemia, highlighting biological links and guiding regional diagnostics and research. Guide clinical and public health actions through early diagnosis, screening protocols, preventive measures, and strengthened training and education. Promote awareness and early intervention to reduce disease burden, cut costs, boost productivity, and inform effective health policies.