Target oncology population
We previously conducted a retrospective research study to assess Vitamin
D status and its socio-demographic and clinical correlates in 163
children with cancer, using 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D)
concentrations. Based on the Endocrine Society
guidelines,13 we found that 65% of the patients with
newly-diagnosed cancer had low Vitamin D levels. Fifty-two patients
(32%) were Vitamin D deficient, and 53 (33%) were insufficient. Age
over 10 years, Hispanic ethnicity, and female sex were significantly
associated with lower 25(OH)D concentration at
diagnosis.12 Based on these research findings, we
initiated our QI initiative in November 2015. Prior to the start of the
project, our institution did not have a written guideline for Vitamin D
testing, supplementation, and follow-up testing post-supplementation in
children with newly-diagnosed cancer. Testing for Vitamin D and
supplementation was done at the discretion of the treating oncology
provider. Our QI initiative included children with newly-diagnosed
cancer 2-18 years of age who needed treatment with chemotherapy and/or
radiation.