Effects of seasonality on blood ionized calcium in early neonatal periods

M C Zheng1, L S Zhou, G F Zhang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital, Guilin Medical College, Guilin, 541001, China.

Insights

Seasonal variations significantly impact whole blood ionized calcium levels in newborns. Neonates born in spring showed lower ionized calcium compared to those born in summer, unlike adults.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Biochemistry
  • Environmental Health

Background:

  • Ionized calcium is crucial for neonatal health.
  • Seasonal influences on physiological parameters are increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of seasonality on whole blood ionized calcium levels in healthy neonates.
  • To compare seasonal variations in neonatal and adult ionized calcium.

Main Methods:

  • Observational study involving 200 healthy neonates.
  • Measurement of whole blood ionized calcium levels during the first week of life.
  • Comparison of levels between neonates born in spring and summer.

Main Results:

  • Lower whole blood ionized calcium levels were observed in neonates born in spring versus summer.
  • No significant seasonal variation in ionized calcium levels was found in adults.

Conclusions:

  • Seasonality significantly affects whole blood ionized calcium levels in early neonatal life.
  • Neonatal physiology demonstrates a distinct seasonal sensitivity not observed in adults.

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