CHARACTERISTICS AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH RICKETS PRESENTING TO A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN SRI LANKA

Objective:This study aimed to identify characteristics and associated risk factors among children diagnosed with rickets in a tertiary care hospital.Methodology:A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, in children diagnosed with rickets who attended the University Pediatric clinic at Teaching Hospital Karapitiya, Sri Lanka. Data was collected on sociodemographic factors, pregnancy-related factors, birth-related factors, breastfeeding, complementary feeding practices, playing environment, exposure to sunlight, clinical signs, and laboratory investigations. Known risk factors were identified through literature and assessed in the study.Results: A total of 36 patients diagnosed with rickets were included in the study. Majority (58.3%) were males, and from rural areas (77.8%). It was observed that 72.2% of children were vitamin D deficient and 25% had insufficient level, while serum calcium and phosphate levels were normal in the majority 72.2% (n=26) and 47.2% (n=17) respectively. Indoor physical activities and inadequate sun exposure (75%), prolonged breastfeeding (69.4%) and low socio-economic status (61.1%) were identified as the most common risk factors for rickets.Conclusion: This study concludes that all rickets patients in the study sample were Vitamin D deficiency rickets and is a significant health problem particularly in rural areas. Inadequate sun exposure, prolonged breastfeeding, and low socio-economic status are the most significant risk factors associated with Vitamin D deficiency rickets. Early diagnosis and management of rickets are crucial to prevent complications and to improve outcomes.