Rickets in exclusively breast fed babies

Articles appear periodically in Indian and western literature, about occurrence of vitamin D deficiency in exclusively breast fed babies. Some countries have formulated guidelines for prevention of vitamin D deficiency in such babies. In this study, twenty cases of nutritional rickets were diagnosed in exclusively breast fed babies between December 2003 and December 2006. None of them received vitamin D supplementation. Through this study, we hope to initiate further research and debate among the policymakers on whether or not vitamin supplementation should be given to all exclusively breast fed babies and lead to a formulation of clear cut guidelines in the Indian context.