Vitamin D Status in Roma Mothers and Newborns
Author Information
Author(s): Stoica Andreea Bianca, Săsăran Maria Oana, Suciu Laura Mihaela, Huțanu Adina, Mărginean Claudiu
Primary Institution: ‘George Emil Palade’ University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology of Târgu Mureș
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among Roma mothers and its impact on their newborns' health?
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency is a significant public health issue among Roma women and their newborns, compounded by socioeconomic challenges.
Supporting Evidence
- All mothers and almost all newborns had vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency.
- Maternal vitamin D status was significantly correlated with neonatal vitamin D levels.
- Most study participants had a low socioeconomic status, reporting severe deficiencies in education and income.
Takeaway
Many Roma mothers and their babies don't have enough vitamin D, which is important for their health, and this is made worse by their difficult living conditions.
Methodology
The study included 131 Roma mothers and their newborns, measuring vitamin D levels and assessing socioeconomic factors.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may lead to response bias.
Limitations
The study had a relatively low sample size and was cross-sectional, which may not capture the full picture of vitamin D's influence throughout gestation.
Participant Demographics
Mothers had a mean age of 23 years, with 92% unemployed and 93% not finishing high school.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI: −0.80–−0.64
Statistical Significance
p < 0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website