Vitamin D supplementation practice in general paediatric clinics is suboptimal—a survey of current practice in an inner city London hospital

Abstract

Aims Vitamin D supplementation is recommended for all children under the age of 5 years in the UK. Due to its ethnic diversity the population of inner-city London is at increased risk for vitamin D deficiency. The authors aimed to identify current practice of vitamin D supplementation in a paediatric outpatient setting and to identify if particular risk groups exist. Methods Cross-sectional questionnaire survey of families attending a variety of paediatric outpatient appointments in July and August 2009. Comparison of practice against gold standard set by Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition 2007. Statistical tests used: χ2. Results N=100 families participated. Children9s median age was 5.0 years (IQR 2.0–10.0 years). 45/100 (45%) attended for conditions potentially increasing risk of nutritional deficiencies: 31/45 were seen to “monitor growth”, gastroenterology or allergic problems; 14/45 for renal or haematological conditions. Ethnicity was varied: 35% White, 28% Afro-Caribbean, 20% Asian/Middle East, 6% mixed race, 11% other. White and Afro-Caribbean children were significantly less likely to be on vitamin supplements compared to children from Asian/Middle Eastern and “other” ethnic background (p=0.047). 19/100 (19%) were described as having food allergies, but foods, such nuts, egg or milk were avoided in 37/100 (37%). 22/100 (22%) of all children were taking vitamin supplements. Of the 44 children age Conclusion Only 13.6% of children age