What Is Rickets?
3. Who Is at Risk of Developing Rickets?
There are many risk factors for rickets. It is most common in children between six and 36 months of age. Babies who are breastfed exclusively or young children who eat a vegetarian diet without fish, eggs and milk are also more likely to develop the condition. There also appears to be a genetic component, as rickets is more common in some families over others.
Children with darker skin do not produce as much vitamin D in their skin. This puts children from African, Pacific Islander and Middle Eastern families at a higher risk of developing rickets than those with fair skin. Similarly, children who are not exposed to the sun regularly may not produce adequate amounts of vitamin D to keep bones strong and healthy.
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