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Prevalence and predictors of vitamin D insufficiency in children: a Great Britain population based study

Michael Absoud1, Carole Cummins, Ming J Lim

  • 1School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom. michaelabsoud@childdemyelination.org.uk

Plos One
|July 30, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Vitamin D insufficiency (VDI) affects 35% of children in Great Britain, particularly adolescents and non-white children. Modifiable factors like low outdoor activity and overweight increase VDI risk.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Public Health
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Vitamin D insufficiency (VDI) is a growing concern in pediatric populations globally.
  • Identifying prevalence and risk factors in specific demographics is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency (VDI) in children across Great Britain.
  • To identify key predictors associated with VDI in this pediatric cohort.

Main Methods:

  • A nationally representative cross-sectional study surveyed 1102 children aged 4-18 years.
  • Data collected included demographics, lifestyle factors, and serum vitamin D levels.
  • VDI was defined as serum levels below 50 nmol/L.

Main Results:

  • 35% of children exhibited vitamin D insufficiency (VDI), with levels decreasing with age.
  • Significant risk factors for VDI included: adolescence, non-white ethnicity, lower latitude living, winter blood draws, lower income, overweight status, reduced outdoor activity, and increased screen time.
  • Dietary intake and gender did not significantly impact vitamin D status.

Conclusions:

  • Adolescents and non-white children represent high-risk groups for VDI and should be targeted in prevention strategies.
  • Modifiable risk factors such as physical activity, screen time, and weight management may help mitigate VDI.
  • There is a need for increased awareness and clearer guidelines regarding vitamin D supplementation in older children.
Abstract

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