Vitamin D Status in Premature Infants and their Mothers with High Stress Levels Due to Military Actions

This article presents data on the study of vitamin D levels in 52 mothers who gave birth to premature infants and were treated in a neonatal unit. Purpose.To analyze the serum levels of vitamin D in premature infants and their mothers, with high stress levels. Materials and Methods.A prospective, single-center, cohort study was conducted among 52 women and their preterm infants within the first days postpartum (before any vitamin D correction).Results .Despite the summer season, the vitamin D level in maternal blood serum was unexpectedly low, averaging 25.15 ± 1.85 [16.3; 32.0] ng/mL.The mean serum 25 (OH)D level in infants was also low: 23.91 ± 2.70 [18.1; 27.5] ng/mL.Only 8 (15.4%) of the infants had sufficient levels of 25 (OH)D.Children are at increased risk of developing sepsis and intestinal problems.Mothers had changed their dietary habits due to chronic wartime stress. Conclusions.Given the high prevalence of deficiency in pregnant women and newborns, preventive supplementation should be provided year-round.With chronic stress, which is during the period of military operations, it is especially important to monitor the health of pregnant women and monitor their vitamin D level.