Status of Vitamin D3 Deficiency/Insufficiency in the Children of Southern

Abstract

Background: Vitamins, particularly vitamin D, are crucial for normal metabolism. Nutritional sources of vitamin D are limited, making sunlight the most significant source. From birth, children have an increased need for vitamin D and require supplementation. Methods: This study aimed to assess the status of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in otherwise healthy children in this region and to emphasize the importance of screening, treatment, and prevention of vitamin D deficiency. Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Results: Among the 500 children studied, 256 (51.2%) had vitamin D deficiency, 156 (31.2%) had insufficiency, and only 88 (17.6%) had sufficient levels of vitamin D. School-aged children were more likely to be deficient compared to preschool and infant groups. A higher percentage of insufficiency was observed in infants compared to preschool and school-age groups. Conclusions: Vitamin D screening should be mandatory for all children referred to a pediatrician, and appropriate treatment modalities should be implemented for these children.