High prevalence of hypovitaminosis D3 among pregnant women in central Iran: correlation with newborn vitamin D3 levels and negative association with gestational age

Abstract

Objective Hypovitaminosis D3 is a significant concern among pregnant women and their newborns because vitamin D3 (Vit-D3) plays a crucial role in embryonic growth, development, and health. This study aimed to evaluate the Vit-D3 status of a group of pregnant Iranian women and its association with newborn Vit-D3 levels, medical and clinical indices after delivery.Methods A total of 206 pregnant women and their newborns were assessed for Vit-D3 levels and their correlation with gestational age. Mean±standard deviation (SD) or the orders (non-parametric tests) of variables were compared, and correlation estimations were performed to elucidate any differences or associations between groups, with a confidence interval of at least 0.95.Results The mean±SD of mothers’ age and gestational age were 29.65±6.18 years and 35.59±1.6 weeks, respectively. Neonatal Vit-D3 levels were associated with maternal age. Using a 30 ng/mL cutoff point for serum Vit-D3 levels, 83.5% of pregnant women and 84.7% of newborns had hypovitaminosis D3. The average Vit-D3 levels of mothers and newborns at delivery time were 23.5±8.07 ng/mL and 20.76±9.14 ng/mL, respectively. Newborn Vit-D3 levels were positively correlated with maternal Vit-D3 serum levels (R=0.744; <i>P</i><0.001) and gestational age (R=0.161; <i>P</i>=0.022). In newborns, head circumference was inversely correlated with bilirubin level (R=-0.302; <i>P</i><0.001) but directly associated with weight (R=0.640; <i>P</i><0.001).Conclusion Hypovitaminosis D3 remains a significant challenge for pregnant Iranian women. Maternal Vit-D3 levels provide for the newborn’s needs, particularly in the late stages of pregnancy. Therefore, Vit-D3 supplementation and regular monitoring are essential for pregnant women and their newborns.

Vitamin D Status of Preterm Newborns at Approximately 4 Weeks of Age in Shenzhen, China: A Retrospective Observational Cohort Study Conducted Across Two Centers

“…Many studies have demonstrated that low levels of VD during pregnancy can result in low levels of VD in premature infants after they are born. [24][25][26] According to Milan et al, 27 GDM patients had lower serum VD levels and serum VD was negatively correlated with their fasting blood glucose levels. Additionally, higher expression of genes linked to VD resistance was seen in GDM patients, and this expression was inversely correlated with serum VD levels.…”