Poster Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM: Campus Center Auditorium [A32]

Calcium Homeostasis and Vitamin D in Low-Sunlight, High-Pollution Cities

Presenter: Nasayah Crenshaw

Faculty Sponsor: Reena Randhir

School: Springfield Technical Community College

Research Area: Biology

ABSTRACT

   In low-sunlight and high-pollution cities, the human body’s ability to maintain calcium homeostasis becomes challenging. A contributing factor is the reduction in the body’s ability to produce vitamin D due to limited sunlight exposure and air pollutants that block ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. This affects calcium absorption and the body's metabolism. This has become a concern because of the risk of developing long-term bone disorders. For example, there is an increased risk of rickets in children, while adults have a higher risk of osteomalacia and osteoporosis. The research question examines the effect of  low sunlight and air pollution on vitamin D status and calcium homeostasis. To conduct this research, information was gathered from data charts and peer-reviewed research articles using online databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science. It is acknowledged that individuals living in low-sunlight and high-pollution cities have higher rates of vitamin D deficiency.  Many cases remain undiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms and limited routine screening. Calcium is an essential mineral that contributes to bone and teeth strength, muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. With the rise in pollution and reduced sunlight exposure, there is an increasing number of individuals living with an undetected deficiency of vitamin D. To support populations in these environments, more public health education is needed to improve awareness and prevention. Recommended strategies include safe sun exposure when possible for 10–30 minutes, consumption of vitamin D–rich foods, and appropriate vitamin D3 supplementation. Increasing awareness can improve calcium balance, reduce disease risk, and support long-term population health outcomes overall.

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