The Impact of Vitamin D Supplementation Duration on Early Childhood Developmental Milestones
Author Information
Author(s): Praticò Andrea D., Lo Bianco Manuela, Leonardi Roberta, Polizzi Agata, Ruggieri Martino, Barker Tyler, Hollis Bruce W.
Primary Institution: University Kore of Enna, Italy; University of Catania, Italy
Hypothesis
Does the duration of Vitamin D supplementation affect the achievement of developmental milestones in early childhood?
Conclusion
Extended Vitamin D supplementation is associated with modest yet significant advancements in key developmental milestones.
Supporting Evidence
- The 12-month group achieved walking and object tracking significantly earlier than the 6-month group.
- Effect sizes for significant differences ranged from small to moderate.
- Both groups achieved milestones within expected population averages.
Takeaway
Giving babies Vitamin D for a longer time can help them reach important growth milestones a little faster.
Methodology
A retrospective study comparing two cohorts of children supplemented with Vitamin D for six months versus twelve months.
Potential Biases
Selection bias due to non-randomized cohort assignment and reliance on caregiver reports.
Limitations
The retrospective design limits causal interpretation and potential selection bias may exist.
Participant Demographics
209 children, 49% males and 51% females, with comparable socio-economic status.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI for mean differences in milestone ages
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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