Evaluation of levels of vitamin D in immigrant and refugee children: single center experience

Abstract

Immigrant and refugee populations are prone to important public health problems and among them, children constitute the most vulnerable subpopulation. In infancy, a sufficient level of vitamin D is important for a healthy development and childhood.1 Vitamin D support is necessary because the infant’s needs are insufficient in breast milk especially within the first 6 months of breastfeeding.2 Since 2012-2015 when the global refugee crisis started, especially Turkey and other high-income countries have faced yearly considerable immigrant and refugee populations and various health problems.3 National health planners need to estimate medical consequences to be caused by the increasing immigrant and refugee influx and make preparations.4 Health problems such as diseases with increasing prevalence and nutritional insufficiencies should be included in that planning.5 Vitamin D deficiency is an important health problem in childhood.5