Impact of Exclusive Breastfeeding on Vitamin D Status in Children Under Five in Karachi
Breastfeeding and Vitamin D Status in Karachi Children
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62807/jowach.v2i1.2025.6-11Keywords:
Vitamin D deficiency, exclusive breastfeeding, children, public health, nutritionAbstract
Background:
Vitamin D deficiency poses a significant public health challenge, particularly for young children. While breastfeeding provides essential nutrients, its influence on vitamin D status in children remains unclear, especially in populations with high deficiency rates. This study evaluates the impact of exclusive breastfeeding on the vitamin D status of children under five in Karachi, Pakistan.
Methods:
This retrospective cross-sectional study included 400 children aged 0 to 5 years who underwent vitamin D testing at a diagnostic laboratory in Karachi in 2022. The study utilized logistic regression and multivariate analyses to examine the relationship between exclusive breastfeeding and vitamin D status, accounting for potential confounders.
Results:
The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 71.8%. Children exclusively breastfed for ≥6 months had a significantly lower risk of deficiency (OR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.45-0.80, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis confirmed that exclusive breastfeeding independently contributed to a reduced risk of deficiency, alongside age and seasonal factors.
Conclusions:
Promoting exclusive breastfeeding, coupled with safe sun exposure and dietary education, could reduce vitamin D deficiency in young children in Karachi. Public health strategies should integrate these findings to enhance childhood nutrition and health outcomes.
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