Evaluating Vitamin D Status Among Children with And Without Forearm Fractures: A Case-Control Study

Objective: To determine the association between the occurrence of forearm fracture in early childhood and vitamin D status and other related factors. Methods: This is a case-control study conducted from April 2024 to March 2025, among children below six years of age at Alazizia general hospital, Wasit, Iraq. Comparing 44 cases with forearm fracture to 44 healthy controls. Serum vitamin D was measured at the time of visit for both groups. Results: Out of total cases, the majority (72.7%) had a vitamin D level < 20 ng/ml, and (88.6%) were consuming < 2 cups/day of cow’s milk, while only (18%) of cases had received vitamin D supplements. Breastfeeding was more common in the control group (81.8%). No significant difference was obtained regarding outdoor play time, growth status, vegetable, and soda intake. Conclusion: Low levels of Vitamin D are associated with a higher risk of fracture. Additionally, consumption of ≥ 2 cups/day of cow’s milk, breastfeeding, and vitamin D supplementation revealed a protective effect. While growth status, outdoor play time, vegetables, and soda intake were not related to forearm fracture.