Vitamin D and Its Controversial Role in Preventing Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Premature Infants

Background: Vitamin D is well-known for its crucial role in modulating immune response and inflammation, both of which are vital for lung health. Objectives: This study examined the relationship between low neonatal Vitamin D levels and the incidence and severity of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in preterm infants. Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Namazee Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Southwestern Iran, enrolling premature infants diagnosed with RDS and a control group of sex- and age-matched healthy newborns. Data from all premature newborns were collected, and the severity of RDS was assessed in affected infants. Vitamin D levels were measured within the first 24 h after birth. Results: The study included 60 premature neonates with RDS (29 females, 31 males; mean gestational age 31.6 ± 2.3 weeks) and 60 without RDS (30 females, 30 males; mean gestational age 31.4 ± 2.8 weeks). The mean Vitamin D levels in infants with RDS were 28.52 ± 21.66 ng/mL, compared to 23.33 ± 19.18 ng/mL in the control group. No significant relationship was found between Vitamin D levels and the presence of RDS ( P = 0.44). No correlation was observed between RDS severity score and Vitamin D levels; however, a strong correlation was identified between Vitamin D levels and birth weight ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: The study found no significant association between Vitamin D levels and RDS; further research is necessary to elucidate this complex relationship.