Vitamin D Deficiency is a Common Risk Factor in Iron Deficiency in Anemia Children

Background: Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is common among children in South Asia, affecting 50–90% due to limited sunlight and inadequate diet. Besides bone health, vitamin D plays a role in immunity and blood formation. Emerging evidence links VDD to anemia, especially iron deficiency anemia (IDA), a significant pediatric health issue in the region. Objective: To assess the association between vitamin D deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in children. Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute (BSH&I), Dhaka, from January to November 2024. One hundred children aged 1 year to 5 years with diagnosed iron deficiency anemia (IDA) were enrolled. Data on demographics, birth history, feeding practices, supplementation, immunization, and medical history were collected via a structured questionnaire. Feeding was classified as breast milk, cow’s milk, or formula. Pediatricians performed clinical examinations. Laboratory tests included complete blood count, reticulocyte count, serum ferritin, iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), alkaline phosphatase, phosphate, and calcium. Wrist radiographs were done to evaluate bone health. Results: Among 100 children with IDA, no significant associations were found between vitamin D status and age, gender, or gestational age. However, urban residence showed a borderline association with vitamin D deficiency (OR=2.36; p=0.049). Anemia (OR=2.29; p=0.047) and iron deficiency anemia (OR=4.41; p=0.011) were significantly more common in the vitamin D-deficient group, indicating a strong link between low vitamin D levels and impaired hematologic status. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency was common among children with iron deficiency anemia and showed a significant association with both anemia and IDA. These findings suggest that low vitamin D levels may be an important contributing factor to impaired hematologic health in children, highlighting the need for integrated nutritional assessment and management.