Influence of Maternal Prenatal Vitamin D Status on Infant Oral Health

Population
The target population for this investigation was expectant women residing in Winnipeg,
Canada located at latitude 49º 53’ North. The majority being <strong>of</strong> self-declared Aboriginal
heritage. Many Aboriginal people live at or below the poverty level. 16,17 It is well known
that poverty influences food security and that limited food choice can affect the
nutritional status <strong>of</strong> individuals. There are also other factors besides poverty alone that
affect women’s food purchasing practices. 18 Therefore, it was important to study this
population group to determine the outcomes that nutritional deficiencies in utero could
have on the infant. Women were excluded if they had any significant medical conditions
that would potentially affect their vitamin D status.
Many Aboriginal expectant mothers in remote northern communities have
difficulties in sustaining adequate levels <strong>of</strong> vitamin D during pregnancy with the
prevalence <strong>of</strong> vitamin D deficiency exceeding 80% in some communities. 6,19
One
purpose <strong>of</strong> this study was to determine whether analogous levels <strong>of</strong> vitamin D deficiency
exist in an urban dwelling Aboriginal population <strong>of</strong> expectant women. This has not been
previously evaluated. Another reason for targeting the Aboriginal community was the
high prevalence <strong>of</strong> ECC witnessed in this population 17,20-23 , even those residing in urban
centres. Enamel hypoplasia, a risk factor for ECC, is also known to be more prevalent in
lower socioeconomic (SES) populations. 24-27
Sample & Calculation <strong>of</strong> Sample Size
Determining appropriate sample size is important for study results to have statistical
significance upon analysis. Sample size for this study was reviewed by a senior
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