Vitamin D Deficiency in Pediatric Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Alexandru Alexandru, Ivan Cristiana-Smaranda, Tanasescu Sonia, Oprisoni Licina Andrada, Dragomir Tiberiu-Liviu, Varga Norberth-Istvan, Mateescu Diana, Diaconu Mircea, Margan Madalin-Marius, Boeriu Estera, Urashima Mitsuyoshi
Primary Institution: Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
Hypothesis
Are pediatric cancer patients a risk group for vitamin D deficiency?
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in pediatric cancer patients and may negatively impact clinical outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- Vitamin D deficiency is associated with older age and lower socioeconomic status in pediatric cancer patients.
- Deficiency rates range from 23% to 72% depending on the study and cancer type.
- Lower vitamin D levels are linked to poorer treatment responses and increased risk of infections.
- Routine screening for vitamin D deficiency is recommended for pediatric cancer patients.
Takeaway
Kids with cancer often don't get enough vitamin D, which can make their treatment less effective and lead to more health problems.
Methodology
A systematic review of literature published between 2009 and July 2024, including studies that assessed vitamin D status in pediatric cancer patients and reported clinical outcomes.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of non-English studies and the subjective nature of study selection.
Limitations
The included studies varied in design, patient populations, and vitamin D assessment methods, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The studies included a diverse pediatric population with various cancer types, primarily focusing on children aged 0–15 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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