Prevalence and Associated Factors of Zinc and Vitamin D Deficiencies in Pediatric and Young Adult Patients with Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia

Micronutrient deficiencies pose significant long-term risks in non-transfusion dependent thalassemia (NTDT) patients. Zinc deficiency can impair growth, cause atopic dermatitis, and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, while vitamin D deficiency disrupts bone mineralization and metabolism. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of zinc and vitamin D deficiencies and investigate associated factors in pediatric to young adult NTDT patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Chiang Mai University Hospital, enrolling NTDT patients aged 5 to 25 years who received fewer than three transfusions annually. Serum zinc and vitamin D levels were measured. Patients and parents completed a 3-day food diary and a sun exposure questionnaire. Zinc deficiency was defined as levels below the reference level for age. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as levels <20 ng/mL. Clinical and hematologic parameters were compared between groups with and without deficiencies. Forty-five patients with NTDT were enrolled, including 23 males (51.1%) males, with a mean age of 12.8 ± 5.3 years. Zinc deficiency affected 13 patients (28.9%), while 23 patients (51.1%) had vitamin D deficiency. Thinness was observed more frequently in patients with zinc deficiency. However, this finding did not reach statistical significance. Older age and inadequate sun exposure were associated with vitamin D deficiency. This study underscores a high prevalence of zinc and vitamin D deficiencies in pediatric and young adult NTDT patients and identifies the associated factors. Addressing and monitoring these deficiencies are crucial for optimizing long-term health outcomes in this patient group.