Low levels of vitamin D at one month of age and its association with bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature newborns under 32 weeks and/or under 1500 g

Abstract

Premature newborns (PTNBs) are at increased risk of vitamin D (VD) deficiency. VD is currently recognized for its multiple functions, including its role in lung maturation, and a reported association between VD deficiency and the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

Objective: To determine whether there is an association between low 25(OH)D levels measured at 1 month of age in PTNBs and BPD.

Patients and Method: A retrospective study was conducted with data collected from clinical records of VLBW infants (< 1,500 grams) and/or < 32 weeks of gestational age. 25(OH) D levels at 1 month of age, perinatal characteristics, and postnatal outcomes were analyzed. Low 25(OH)D levels were defined as < 30 ng/ml, and a statistical association with BPD and other comorbidities was evaluated.

Results: A total of 147 PTNBs were included in the analysis. The mean VD level was 22.0 ± 10.3 ng/ml. 85.0% (125/147) had low levels and 45.0% (66/147) developed BPD. No association was observed between low 25(OH)D levels and comorbidities, including BPD. The BPD group had a lower gestational age (p < 0.0001), birth weight (p < 0.0001), and greater need for any respiratory support (p < 0.001), along with a significant association with all comorbidities evaluated (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Most PTNBs had VD deficiency. No association was found between low VD levels and BPD.