Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Infants in Northern India: A Hospital Based Prospective Study

Swathi Chacham1, Swati Rajput2, Shilpa Gurnurkar3

  • 1Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, IND.

Cureus
|December 11, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in infants (74%) and mothers (85.5%), particularly in lower socioeconomic groups. Maternal vitamin D status significantly impacts infant levels, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Nutritional Science
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Vitamin D deficiency is a critical global nutritional issue impacting infant growth and development.
  • Low socioeconomic status is a significant risk factor for nutritional deficiencies in infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in infants.
  • To assess the correlation between infant and maternal vitamin D levels.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective observational study conducted from January 2017 to December 2018.
  • Enrolled 200 infants (<1 year) and 200 mothers at a tertiary care center.
  • Defined vitamin D deficiency as serum vitamin D level <20 ng/mL.

Main Results:

  • Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 74% in infants and 85.5% in mothers.
  • A significant positive correlation was found between maternal and infant vitamin D levels.
  • Neonatal age group, low socioeconomic status, and maternal deficiency were key determinants.

Conclusions:

  • High prevalence of vitamin D deficiency necessitates public health attention.
  • Maternal vitamin D status is a critical factor in infant vitamin D levels.
  • Interventions should target mothers and vulnerable socioeconomic groups.
Abstract

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