Bibliometric Analysis of Research on Vitamin D Deficiency and Its Association with Mental Health Outcomes Among...

The objective of this study is to analyze trends in global research on vitamin D deficiency and mental health outcomes among women using bibliometric methods, focusing on publication output, citation patterns, collaboration structures, thematic research clusters, and key gaps in the existing literature.

A structured bibliometric search of the Scopus database identified 1124 English-language, peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024 on vitamin D deficiency and mental health in women. Data were analyzed using VOSviewer-Version 1.6.20 to visualize publication trends, citation impact, co-authorship networks, and thematic clusters. Basic statistics were used to explain the publication patterns, while the analysis of networks revealed new research themes and connections across different areas of study.

Research output increased steadily, reaching a peak in 2024. Annweiler, C. was the most prolific author. Leading institutions included the University of Western Ontario, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and Monash University based on citation impact. The United States contributed the most publications, followed by the United Kingdom and China. Thematic analysis showed strong links between vitamin D deficiency and depression, anxiety, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic conditions.

This bibliometric analysis highlights the growing academic interest in vitamin D deficiency and its association with mental health outcomes among women. The findings reflect patterns in research activity, collaboration, and thematic focus rather than evidence of clinical effectiveness or causal relationships. While significant progress has been made, gaps remain in gender-specific research, life stage analysis, and representation from low- and middle-income countries.