Authors:
Zosky GR, Hart PH, Whitehouse AJO, Kusel MM, Ang W, Foong RE, Chen L, Holt PG, Sly PD, Hall GL
Authors notes:
Annals of the American Thoracic Society 11(4): 571-577.
Keywords:
25(OH)D, FVC, lung development, Raine Study
Abstract:
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with chronic lung disease.
We have previously shown in an in vivo mouse model that maternal vitamin D deficiency is associated with alterations in early life lung structure and function.
However, there are limited data to support a relationship between maternal vitamin D deficiency during the early stages of lung development and postnatal lung function in human populations.
To assess the association between maternal vitamin D deficiency, postnatal lung function, and asthmatic status in a longitudinal birth cohort.
Serum was collected at 16 to 20 weeks' gestation at the time of recruitment in a community-based prospective birth cohort for measurement of vitamin D (25[OH]D).
Lung function was assessed by spirometry according to American Thoracic Society guidelines in children at 6 and 14 years of age.
Demographic and clinical history data were collected by questionnaire at recruitment and at the follow-up visits.
Measurements and Main Results: FVC Z-scores in both sexes and FEV1 Z-scores in girls were positively associated with maternal serum 25(OH)D at 6 years of age.
These associations were mostly absent at 14 years of age. Maternal vitamin D deficiency was positively associated with asthma at 6 years of age but only in boys.
This study supports the notion that vitamin D deficiency during lung development may impact on postnatal lung growth and increase the risk of developing lung disease.