Vitamin D in preterm infants: A prospective observational study

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Nutritional Science
• Pediatric Endocrinology

Background:

• Preterm infants face a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency due to maternal factors and insufficient supplementation.
• The optimal quantity and efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in preterm neonates remain subjects of ongoing investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the natural progression of vitamin D status in preterm infants.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of current hospital nutritional protocols in achieving recommended vitamin D supplementation levels.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study was conducted in a hospital Neonatal Unit.
• Infants received a standardized nutrition protocol including vitamin D supplementation.
• Vitamin D levels (25(OH)D) were compared at birth and 36 weeks post-menstrual age/discharge.

Main Results:

• The proportion of vitamin D-deficient infants significantly decreased from 32.1% at birth to 7.1% at 36 weeks post-menstrual age (P = 0.016).
• Mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels increased from 58.4 to 82.9 nmol/L (P < 0.001).
• Average daily vitamin D intake was 643.6 IU.

Conclusions:

• The hospital's current nutritional practices are effective in meeting vitamin D supplementation recommendations for preterm infants.
• These practices lead to a significant reduction in vitamin D deficiency by the time of discharge.