Vitamin d levels among children with severe acute malnutrition.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Vitamin d levels among children with severe acute malnutrition.
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Dr. Sudhir Mehta
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World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Vitamin d levels among children with severe acute malnutrition.
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20175-8334
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is a significant public health issue affecting children globally, with prevalence rates notably high in low- and middle-income countries. The study conducted by Dr. Sudhir Mehta aims to assess the vitamin D levels among children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, a condition that often coexists with various nutrient deficiencies, including vitamins and minerals. Through this research, the study seeks to highlight the relationship between malnutrition and vitamin D levels, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and intervention in affected populations.
High Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency
The study revealed that 32% of the 100 children evaluated presented with vitamin D deficiency, with a median serum vitamin D level of 68.8 nmol/l. This finding parallels previous studies in Pakistan, which indicated a similar prevalence of 33.6%. Variations in VDD prevalence in children across different countries were noted, with significant rates found in other regions such as China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Uganda. These statistics suggest that inadequate sunlight exposure, poor nutritional intake, and potential intestinal malabsorption issues may aggravate the nutritional deficiencies faced by malnourished populations.
Radiological Evidence of Vitamin D Deficiency
The study further explored the radiological features associated with VDD, noting that approximately 20% of the children exhibited one or more X-ray signs indicative of vitamin D deficiency. Specific features, such as fraying and splaying, were discussed as significant markers. Notably, the study reported a sensitivity of 72% and a specificity of 95% for X-ray findings in diagnosing vitamin D deficiency. The significant correlation between X-ray features and VDD underscores the potential for using this diagnostic tool in resource-limited settings to identify children at risk.
Malnutrition and Rickets Coexistence
The findings raise questions about the relationship between malnutrition and rickets, a condition typically caused by severe vitamin D deficiency. While the study did not establish definitive causal links, it highlighted that both conditions may arise from overlapping socio-economic factors. The prevalence rates of VDD and rickets among malnourished children indicate a pressing need for interventions that address both vitamin deficiency and overall nutritional status, as well as the importance of incorporating guidelines for vitamin D assessment and treatment in managing malnutrition.
Conclusion
The high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among children with severe acute malnutrition identified in this study underscores the critical need for active surveillance and aggressive management strategies. Increased awareness of the interconnected nature of malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency is essential for developing efficient public health policies aimed at improving child health outcomes. Future studies should seek to complement these findings with further nutritional analyses and broader investigations into the causes and consequences of vitamin D deficiency in malnourished populations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the main objective of the study on vitamin D levels?
The study aimed to evaluate vitamin D levels among children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, assessing the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in that population.
What percentage of children in the study had vitamin D deficiency?
In the study, 32 out of 100 children, or 32%, were found to have vitamin D deficiency, indicating a significant public health concern among malnourished children.
How were vitamin D levels measured in the study?
Serum vitamin D levels were determined using a 25(OH) enzyme-linked immunoassay, and children with levels below 50 nmol/l were categorized as vitamin D deficient.
What factors may contribute to vitamin D deficiency in malnourished children?
Contributing factors may include decreased nutritional intake, poor sunlight exposure, and potential impairment of absorption due to malnutrition or disease processes.
What radiological features were associated with vitamin D deficiency?
The study identified features like cupping, fraying, and splaying on wrist X-rays, which were statistically significant indicators of vitamin D deficiency among the malnourished children.
What does the study conclude about managing vitamin D deficiency?
The high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in malnourished children highlights the need for active surveillance, aggressive management, and proper identification and treatment of severe deficiencies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Vitamin d levels among children with severe acute malnutrition.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
The study refers to the systematic investigation conducted to evaluate vitamin D levels among children with severe acute malnutrition. It employs a cross-sectional descriptive design involving clinical examinations and laboratory tests to establish a correlation between malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency, highlighting its public health implications.
2) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is a significant condition evaluated in this research, affecting nutritional status and overall health in children. The study specifically focuses on severe acute malnutrition, which is critical in understanding how insufficient nutrient intake and absorption can impact vitamin D levels and lead to deficiencies.
3) Disease:
In the context of this research, disease relates to various health conditions that may arise from malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency. The connection between systemic diseases and nutritional deficiencies reflects the broader implications on public health, emphasizing the need for intervention strategies in vulnerable populations.
4) India:
India is the geographical context of this study, where malnutrition and vitamin D deficiencies are pressing health concerns. The findings may reflect local dietary habits, cultural practices, and socio-economic factors that contribute to the prevalence of deficiencies in children, thus informing regional health strategies.
5) Pur:
The term 'poor' in this study relates to socio-economic conditions influencing access to adequate nutrition and healthcare. Children from poorer backgrounds are more susceptible to malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in low-income communities to improve health outcomes.
6) Sri Aurobindo:
Sri Aurobindo Medical College and PG Institute in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, represents the institution where this study was conducted. It highlights the collaboration of healthcare professionals in recognizing and addressing health issues like malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency in the local population.
7) Measurement:
Measurement pertains to the evaluation of vitamin D levels using specific laboratory methods in this study. Accurate measurement is essential for determining the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among malnourished children, thus providing necessary data to develop effective health interventions and policies.
8) Madhya:
Madhya Pradesh, the state in central India where the study takes place, is significant as it reflects regional health issues, including malnutrition rates. The socio-economic conditions in Madhya Pradesh play a crucial role in understanding the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and improving child health.
9) Indore:
Indore is the city in Madhya Pradesh where the study was conducted at Sri Aurobindo Medical College. Its urban setting presents unique challenges and resources for addressing malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency, contributing to a better understanding of public health needs in similar environments.
10) Table:
The 'Table' in this study refers to the summarization of data regarding vitamin D deficiency prevalence among children. It provides a clear visual representation of the results, aiding in the understanding of the impact of severe acute malnutrition on children's health.
11) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section where the authors interpret and analyze the results of the study. It contextualizes the findings within existing literature, addresses implications, potential limitations, and suggests directions for future research or policy changes related to malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency.
12) Similarity:
Similarity points to how the findings of this study align with other research conducted on vitamin D deficiency in malnourished children across different regions. Recognizing similarities helps identify common patterns and informs strategies for addressing deficiencies in diverse populations.
13) Edema (Oedema):
Edema, or fluid retention, is one of the criteria for including children in the study. Its presence indicates severe malnutrition and possibly contributes to complications related to vitamin D deficiency. Understanding edema's role underscores the significance of comprehensive health assessments.
14) Birth:
Birth is pertinent in discussions of children's health, specifically regarding the impacts of malnutrition from early life. The study considers children from 6 months to 60 months, indicating how early nutritional deficiencies can affect health, growth, and development into later stages of life.
15) Cina:
China is mentioned to illustrate global prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among malnourished children. Comparing findings from different countries, including China, allows for a broader understanding of malnutrition and its health consequences, informing public health policies internationally.
16) Sign:
Sign plays a role in identifying clinical presentations associated with vitamin D deficiency, such as rickets. Through clinical assessments and X-ray findings, the study aims to determine specific signs that can aid healthcare professionals in diagnosing deficiencies in resource-limited settings.
17) Fish:
Fish is mentioned in relation to nutritional intake studies, highlighting its value as a source of vitamin D. The dietary habits of populations, including the consumption of fish, can directly influence vitamin D levels, emphasizing the importance of nutrition education and dietary improvements.
18) Male:
Male refers to the gender distribution among participants, where a higher prevalence of malnutrition was noted in boys. Understanding gender disparities in health outcomes is essential for designing tailored interventions that effectively address the unique health needs of both genders.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Vitamin d levels among children with severe acute malnutrition.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Public Health Problem, Vitamin D levels, Vitamin D deficiency, Cross sectional descriptive study, Severe acute malnutrition, Serum level, Nutritional intake, Active surveillance, Aggressive management, Metabolic bone disease, Enteric dysfunction.