Bibliometric analysis reveals lagging research progress on vitamin D and osteoporosis in Southeast Asia compared to global trends

Abstract

Osteoporosis, a widespread global health concern, is strongly linked to vitamin D deficiency, which affects calcium absorption and bone metabolism. Understanding the interplay between vitamin D and osteoporosis is crucial, yet disparities in research output between global and Southeast Asia (SEA) contexts may highlight gaps in regional knowledge and healthcare strategies. The aim of this study was to assess and compare the research landscape on vitamin D and osteoporosis between global and SEA datasets, identifying disparities and areas that require further research focus. A bibliometric analysis was performed using Scopus data as of August 12, 2024. Two datasets were analyzed: a global dataset with 24,829 publications and a SEA dataset with 345 publications. Bibliometrix and VOSviewer software were employed to analyze publication trends, thematic evolution, and co-occurrence networks. The global dataset showed an exponential increase in research publications starting in the 1980s, with a recent trend toward saturation. In contrast, the SEA dataset is experiencing growth but remains significantly behind the global output, with SEA countries contributing a relatively small number of publications. The SEA dataset had a higher proportion of original research (69.6%) compared to the global dataset (59.4%). Thematic analysis revealed that SEA research predominantly focuses on well-established topics, lacking the diversification and specialization observed globally. The research on vitamin D and osteoporosis in SEA is lagging behind global trends, with fewer publications and less thematic specialization. We recommend intensifying research in the SEA region, aligning local guidelines with international standards, and increasing international and interdisciplinary collaborations.