Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common in children, especially impacting African American (AA) and obese children. Researchers conducted an observational cross-sectional study of children (mean age 6.8 yrs). The children underwent overnight polysomnographic evaluation and a fasting blood draw the morning after the study, along with a lipid profile, homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), hsCRP and plasma 25(OH)D testing. Results indicated that AA children, obese children and children with OSA had significantly lower 25(OH)D levels. Linear association were identified between 24(OH)D plasma levels and body mass index (BMI) z-score, hsCRP and HOMA-IR, apnea-hypop¬nea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation (Spo2) nadir, with the latter two associations remaining statistically significant even when controlling for all other potential confounders. Researchers concluded that 25(OH)D levels are reduced in pediatric OSA, in AA children and in obese children, particularly when all are present, and may play a role in modulating the degree of insulin resistance and systemic inflammation.
Kheirandish-Gozal L, Peeris E, Gozal D. Vitamin D levels and obstructive sleep apnea in children. Sleep Med. 2014 Apr;15 (4):459-63.