Vitamin C Deficiency and Sleep Apnoea in Children with Sickle Cell Anaemia
Author Information
Author(s): SE Cox, L'Esperance V, Makani J, Soka D, Hill CM, Kirkham FJ
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
Vitamin C deficiency is associated with nocturnal haemoglobin oxygen desaturation in children with sickle cell anaemia.
Conclusion
Obstructive sleep apnoea is common in Tanzanian children with sickle cell anaemia and is associated with vitamin C deficiency.
Supporting Evidence
- Median nocturnal delta 12 s index was higher in children with sickle cell anaemia compared to controls.
- Vitamin C deficiency was found in 48% of children with sickle cell anaemia.
- Delta 12 s index >0.4 was associated with vitamin C deficiency.
Takeaway
Kids with sickle cell anaemia who don't get enough vitamin C might have trouble breathing at night.
Methodology
Pulse oximetry was performed overnight and during the day on children with sickle cell anaemia and their siblings, measuring vitamin C levels.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size and lack of randomization.
Limitations
The sample size was small and the study did not include a control group of unrelated children.
Participant Demographics
23 children with sickle cell anaemia (median age 8 years) and 18 siblings (median age 7 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.023
Confidence Interval
95% CI −86%/−15%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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