Osteomalacia is primarily due to a deficiency of which vitamin?

Osteomalacia is primarily associated with a deficiency of Vitamin D, which is crucial for the proper metabolism of calcium and phosphate in the body. Vitamin D helps maintain healthy bone mineralization by promoting the absorption of calcium from the diet and facilitating its reabsorption in the kidneys. A lack of sufficient Vitamin D leads to decreased calcium levels in the bloodstream, resulting in poor bone mineralization and the characteristic softening of bones seen in osteomalacia.

This condition presents with symptoms such as bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. Since Vitamin D is essential for maintaining bone integrity, its deficiency is directly linked to the development of osteomalacia. Other vitamins listed, such as A, E, and K, play different roles in overall health but do not have the same direct impact on bone mineralization.