Which vitamin deficiency is a significant concern in pediatric patients with limited sun exposure?

In pediatric patients with limited sun exposure, vitamin D deficiency is a significant concern because vitamin D is primarily synthesized in the skin through the action of ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight. When children have reduced exposure to sunlight, whether due to geographic location, lifestyle factors, or cultural practices, their ability to produce sufficient vitamin D decreases.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health, making it vital for the growing skeleton of children. Insufficient levels of vitamin D can lead to rickets, a condition characterized by the softening and weakening of bones in children, which can result in deformities and growth issues.

While vitamins A, B12, and E are essential for various bodily functions, they do not have the same direct relationship to sun exposure as vitamin D does. Each of these vitamins has different sources and functions in the body; for instance, vitamin A is mainly obtained from dietary sources such as dairy products and carrots, vitamin B12 is found in animal products, and vitamin E is an antioxidant found in nuts and vegetable oils. Therefore, when considering the impact of limited sun exposure specifically, vitamin D is the most critical vitamin related to this concern.