Vitamin D Deficiency and Sickle Cell Disease

Vitamin D deficiency is a problem in all age groups. But people with sickle cell disease are at higher risk for low levels of vitamin D.

Getting treatment for vitamin D deficiency is important if your child has sickle cell disease. People with sickle cell disease who are treated for vitamin D deficiency may have less pain than those who are not treated.

Not having enough vitamin D can cause:

• Chronic pain
• Osteoporosis
• Bone fractures
• Muscle weakness

In children and teens, low vitamin D levels can cause bones to grow poorly, leading to shorter height than expected.

Ways to get vitamin D

Vitamin D is found in certain foods. 

• Milk
• Fish
• Orange juice
• Cereal
• Yogurt
• Cheese products

Look for labels that say, “vitamin D fortified.”

Vitamin D is also produced through sunlight. Make sure your child wears sunscreen.

You may also give your child supplements to maintain a normal level of vitamin D.

Diagnosis of vitamin D deficiency

Your child’s care team will check for vitamin D deficiency using a blood test.

If your child has low levels of vitamin D (less than 30 mg/mL), they may need a prescription vitamin D supplement.

If your child has a prescription for a vitamin D supplement, be sure they take the medicine exactly as prescribed.

Reach out to your child’s care team if you have questions.