Overview

• A 48-year-old woman in Chengdu, China, fractured a rib while turning in bed due to severe osteoporosis caused by low vitamin D levels.
• The woman avoided sun exposure since childhood, driven by cultural beauty standards favoring fair skin, and consistently used sunscreen and protective clothing.
• Tests revealed critically low vitamin D levels, which accelerated bone resorption and led to fragile bones susceptible to fractures from minor movements.
• Health experts emphasize the importance of balanced sunlight exposure and adequate dietary intake of vitamin D and calcium to prevent similar cases.
• The incident has sparked national discussions on the health risks of extreme sun protection practices and the need for moderation.