Self-Reported Prescribing Behaviour of Vitamin D Prophylaxis in Healthy Children by Belgian Paediatricians

Abstract

Abstract Background There is currently no consensus on the guidelines for vitamin D prophylaxis in healthy children. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prescribing behaviour of vitamin D prophylaxis among Belgian paediatricians. Methods Between June and September 2022, a questionnaire was distributed by e-mail to all Belgian paediatricians who are members of at least one of three scientific or professional organizations, as well as to the heads of every Belgian paediatric or neonatal hospital ward. Results We analysed 426 completed questionnaires. All regions, age categories and subspecialties were represented. Vitamin D prophylaxis is always or frequently recommended by 98% of paediatricians. Fifty-eight percent of paediatricians advise vitamin D prophylaxis up to the age of 6 years and 66% of paediatricians advise a daily dose of 400 IU. In nearly every hospital in Belgium (96%), there is a specific protocol for vitamin D prophylaxis for newborns; but not for the paediatric unit. Conclusions Nearly all Belgian paediatricians prescribe vitamin D prophylaxis to infants. Although not recommended by guidelines, 25-OH-vitamin D is frequently measured by paediatricians. Practices regarding duration and dosing of vitamin D prophylaxis show large variability. Most paediatric wards do not have a protocol.