Newborns with low levels of vitamin D 'have double risk of schizophrenia'



A three year study suggests vitamin D is essential for a baby's healthy brain growth (posed by model)

Newborn babies with low levels of vitamin D have a far higher risk of developing schizophrenia later in life, researchers have found.



Scientists from the Queensland Brain Institute used tiny samples of blood taken as part of routine screening from newborn babies in Denmark.

They then compared vitamin D concentrations in babies who later developed schizophrenia with healthy controls. The study confirmed those with low vitamin D had a twofold increased risk of developing the disorder.



Vitamin D, or the 'sunshine hormone', is mostly from sunlight absorbed through the skin, although oily fish is another rich source.



It has long been known that it is important for healthy bones, but the Queensland team has discovered that it is also important for healthy brain growth.



Low vitamin D is common in many countries. Researchers have previously found that people with schizophrenia are more likely to be born in winter.



'While we need to replicate these findings, the study opens up the possibility that improving vitamin D levels in pregnant women and newborn babies could reduce the risk of later schizophrenia,' investigator Professor John McGrath said.



The findings from the three-year study were published in today’s edition of Archives of General Psychiatry.

Professor McGrath said: 'While the links between vitamin D and bone growth have long been appreciated, the fact that we have discovered it is also important for healthy brain growth is a vital step forward.'

Fellow investigator Dr Darryl Eyles said: 'Vitamin D is necessary for cell growth and communication in all organs in the body, so it’s no surprise that a lack of vitamin D has an affect on the developing brain.'

Schizophrenia is a poorly understood group of brain disorders that affects around one in 100 Britons. It usually first presents in young adults and symptoms include hearing voices and delusions. However, it does not reflect a split personality and violent episodes are very rare.

