The problem of insufficient vitamin D intake in the diet of internally displaced persons

Abstract

The armed aggression against Ukraine has resulted in profound medical and social consequences, including the emergence of a large population of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who experience increased physical and psycho-emotional vulnerability. Military conflict is associated with high levels of chronic stress, anxiety and depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and reduced adaptive capacity. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression, highlighting the global scale of the problem and its potential exacerbation under wartime conditions. Vitamin D deficiency remains a significant public health concern across all regions of Ukraine. Epidemiological studies conducted in 2020 in the southern regions of Ukraine demonstrated that only 35.1% of residents had optimal vitamin D status, while 31.3% exhibited insufficiency and 33.7% were diagnosed with deficiency. The dietary patterns of IDPs largely depend on emergency food assistance. An analysis of the harmonized humanitarian food basket (as of July 2024) revealed its “partial adequacy”: despite an excess of vitamin A (209% of the recommended level), it lacks a balanced vitamin D profile. Diets primarily based on refined cereals and canned products fail to provide sufficient nutrients to compensate for limited sunlight exposure. At the same time, Ukraine possesses industrial infrastructure for the fortification of oil and flour, which is currently underutilized. Vitamin D insufficiency increases susceptibility to infectious diseases and contributes to the progression of chronic conditions such as osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. In the context of restricted access to healthcare services for displaced populations, this creates a risk of long-term deterioration of public health and national resilience.