In what appears to be an ongoing trend, another study has emerged suggesting a lack of vitamin D can lead to yet another serious condition.

The findings, published in the February 6th issue of Public Library of Science Genetics, stated children who lack the vitamin in the womb or in early childhood may be more susceptible to developing multiple sclerosis (MS) later in life. The study found the vitamin may assist in controlling an MS-associated gene.

Some health officials suggested the finding may explain the reason MS is relatively rare in certain countries near the equator. Vitamin D is mainly received through natural sunlight, although it is also found in salmon, tuna and as an additive in milk and other products.

"We were surprised to find the [vitamin] D connection," study coauthor George Ebers told Health.com. "We suspect women who are planning to have children may benefit from taking D [supplements] in regions where they are likely to be deficient."

Those who can get vitamin D from natural sunlight should know that too much exposure can be toxic and lead to skin cancer.