Prevalence of Hypovitaminosis D in Adults Presenting With Generalized Aches: A Hospital-Based Observational Study

Introduction and aim: Generalized aches mean widespread musculoskeletal pain. It has various etiologies, and among them, hypovitaminosis D is one of the common causes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D and to identify other causes of generalized aches in adults. Methods: This retrospective, observational, descriptive study was conducted at Nepal Medical College and Teaching Hospital (NMCTH), Kathmandu, Nepal. Records of adults presenting to the rheumatology OPD with generalized aches from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, were reviewed. Serum 25(OH)D and other relevant investigations were assessed. Patients with coexisting hypovitaminosis D and rheumatic disease were categorized as having hypovitaminosis D-rheumatic disease overlap. Rheumatic causes of widespread pain, other than hypovitaminosis D, were classified as rheumatic disease. Results were expressed as numbers, percentages, and means. Results: Among 136 patients with generalized aches, the female-to-male ratio was 9.4:1, and 73 (53.7%) had hypovitaminosis D (40 isolated and 33 overlapping rheumatic disease) with a mean vitamin D level of 18.40 ng/mL. The mean age of subjects with hypovitaminosis D was 50.37 years, with female predominance (48.5%). The remaining 63 (46.3%) cases had rheumatic disease with normal levels of vitamin D as a cause of widespread pain, with benign joint hypermobility syndrome (BJHS) being the most common. Conclusions: Hypovitaminosis D was a common cause of generalized aches in adults and can overlap with rheumatic conditions. Among rheumatic diseases, BJHS was more prevalent.