Scotmann Pharmaceuticals Hosts D Connect Summit 2026 in Karachi to Raise Vitamin D Awareness

Scotmann Pharmaceuticals hosted the D Connect Summit 2026 in Karachi to mark World Vitamin D Day. The event brought together healthcare professionals and medical experts to discuss the growing concerns surrounding vitamin D deficiency, its diagnosis and effective treatment practices in Pakistan.

Speakers emphasised the importance of evidence-based approaches to managing vitamin D deficiency. They urged physicians to avoid unnecessary testing and the indiscriminate use of high-dose supplements, highlighting the need for treatment plans based on individual clinical requirements.

Research Highlights Vitamin D Deficiency in Pakistan

During a presentation titled “Mapping the Burden, Mastering the Management,” Dr Sellal Ahmed, Associate Professor at KIMS and Consultant at Tabba Heart Institute, discussed national research findings and prescribing guidelines.

He shared findings from a review of 18 publications, which reported an 84.82% prevalence of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. Another audit of 60,937 laboratory records found a rate of 61.1%.

However, he cautioned that differences in study populations and diagnostic criteria mean these figures should not be considered definitive national prevalence estimates.

The discussion also highlighted several factors contributing to vitamin D deficiency in Pakistan, including limited sunlight exposure, indoor lifestyles, covered clothing, air pollution and inadequate dietary intake.

Dr Ahmed recommended targeted testing for individuals with relevant clinical conditions, such as skeletal diseases and malabsorption, rather than routine screening of healthy adults. He also stressed the importance of personalised supplementation, appropriate monitoring and avoiding repeated high-dose treatments without medical reassessment.

Importance of Vitamin D for Bone Health

Dr Pervez Ali, Associate Professor of Orthopaedics at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, highlighted the role of vitamin D in maintaining bone health throughout life.

In his presentation, “From Childhood to Agieng — Vitamin D, A Lifetime Partner in Bone Health,” he cited research suggesting that approximately 73% of Pakistani adults have insufficient vitamin D levels, despite the country’s abundant sunshine.

He further noted that nearly 90% of peak bone mass is developed by the end of adolescence, making childhood and teenage years particularly important for long-term bone health and early prevention.

Vitamin D and Women’s Health

Dr Farzana Amir discussed the role of vitamin D during women’s reproductive and post-menopausal years.

Her presentation explored potential links between vitamin D deficiency and menstrual disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance, infertility and pregnancy-related complications, including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

She also highlighted the potential impact of vitamin D deficiency after menopause, particularly its association with bone loss, muscle weakness and an increased risk of fractures.

Experts Emphasise Safe and Informed Treatment

Other speakers at the summit included Dr Fakhra Sanjrani, Dr Yousuf Kamal, Dr Jagdesh Kumar, Prof. Dr Ahmed Iqbal Mirza and Dr Avenash Punshi.

The D Connect Summit 2026 concluded with a strong emphasis on informed clinical assessment and responsible treatment practices. Experts reiterated that managing vitamin D deficiency requires an individualised approach at every stage of life, with appropriate testing, medical guidance and safe supplementation.

The event highlighted the importance of raising awareness about vitamin D deficiency while encouraging healthcare professionals and the public to make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment.