ICMR to constitute task force to assess vitamin D deficiency

To review the existing information available on prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the country, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is constituting a task force on vitamin D. Once constituted, the task force will be mandated to review the existing information available on prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the country and plan for mapping of this micro-nutrient deficiency and other required studies. Besides, the task force has to assess the existing research methodologies for assessment of vitamin D deficiency and make recommendations for appropriate research methodologies for this micro-nutrient. Moreover, the task force has also to develop innovative approaches for awareness of population with respect to significance of adequate intake of vitamin D. Apart from all these, It will have to develop research facilities in different parts of the country for assessment of problem of vitamin D and developing capacity building of scientists in carrying out this micro-nutrient research. For constituting the task force, the ICMR has invited expression of interest for participation in task force on vitamin D from eligible scientists in the country. The members of proposed task force will be selected based on scientific publications or positions in different institutes of the country especially remote areas and unrepresented areas of the country. Few youngsters below the age of 40 years will also be included in each task force. Source:Pharmabiz