Maternal vitamin D levels are inversely related to allergic sensitization and atopic diseases in early childhood

Background There are few studies addressing the impact of maternal vitamin D status on the vitamin D levels in offspring, their sensitization to common allergens and atopic disease development. Methods Children aged 0 through 4 yr from a birth cohort in the Prediction of Allergies in Taiwanese Children (PATCH) study were enrolled. Time series of serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels were measured in maternal blood before delivery, cord blood, and at age 1.5, 3, and 4 using an electrochemiluminescence‐based assay. Specific IgE antibodies against food and inhalant allergens were measured at 6 months, and 1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 4 yr of age. Results A total of 164 mother–child pairs from a birth cohort were recruited in this study. The mean levels of maternal 25(OH)D were 23.2 ± 7.7 ng/ml with a high (up to 80%) prevalence of insufficient vitamin D status (< 30 ng/ml). A significant correlation was seen between maternal and cord blood 25(OH)D levels (p