Comparison of infant vitamin D supplement use among Canadian-born, immigrant, and refugee mothers.

PURPOSE

This study compares knowledge and practice of infant vitamin D supplementation among immigrant, refugee, and Canadian-born mothers.

METHOD

Focus group discussions with 94 mothers of children aged 0 to 3 years recruited from early childhood centers and a refugee health clinic.

FINDINGS

Both immigrant and Canadian-born mothers indicated good knowledge and use of infant vitamin D supplementation. In contrast, Canadian government-assisted refugees were less likely to supplement with vitamin D. The main source of information about vitamin D was public health prenatal classes. Many mothers reported inconsistent guidance from health care providers.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Exclusively breastfed infants of refugees may be more at risk of vitamin D deficiency. All mothers require clear recommendations, both in clinical and public health settings.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Mothers, both new Canadian and Canadian-born, require clear and consistent messaging from health professionals. Refugee mothers, however, require more educational support to promote infant vitamin D supplementation.