Search Results (1,490)

Background: Caregivers of individuals with cognitive impairment face heightened emotional and psychological burdens, yet the interaction between caregiver well-being, patient characteristics, and socio-demographic factors still requires investigation. This study aimed to examine the psychological well-being of family caregivers in an urban Romanian context, focusing on the role of depressive and anxiety symptoms, education, and care-recipient cognition function. A cross-sectional study was conducted among family caregivers recruited from a neurology-psychiatry service in Bucharest. Caregivers completed Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scales, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the COVI Scale. Cognitive status of care recipients was obtained from medical records (Mini-Mental State Examination, MMSE). Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and separate linear regression models were performed for each well-being dimension. Results: Caregivers reported moderate to high well-being scores, with Environmental Mastery highest (M = 38.01, SD = 8.70) and Purpose in Life lowest (M = 33.14, SD = 6.72). Depression scores averaged 18.49 (SD = 6.55), indicating moderate depressive symptoms, and anxiety scores averaged 12.14 (SD = 2.23), consistent with severe anxiety. Cognitive impairment in care recipients was marked (MMSE M = 11.47, SD = 6.99). Bivariate analyses showed that lower MMSE scores were associated with higher caregiver anxiety (ρ = −0.287, p = 0.014). Regression models (R² = 0.08–0.25) indicated that higher education was positively associated with autonomy, personal growth, positive relations, and environmental mastery, whereas older age and female gender were linked to lower well-being in several domains. Depressive symptoms were unexpectedly associated with higher autonomy and self-acceptance. Conclusions: Caregiver psychological well-being was modestly associated with depressive symptoms, education, gender, and age, while care-recipient cognitive status showed only weak links to anxiety. Education emerged as a consistent protective factor, whereas female gender and older age were associated with lower well-being. Although the Bonferroni correction eliminated significance in separate models, a complementary multivariate multiple regression confirmed global effects of education, caregiver gender, and depression across well-being domains. These findings emphasize the need for systematic psychological support for caregivers and call for larger, longitudinal studies to clarify causal mechanisms and additional protective factors. Full article

Background: Research shows that experiences of sexual violence and the use of substances hurt mental health, predisposing individuals to the development of psychological symptoms of somatization, depression, and anxiety. Objective: The main objective of this study is to assess substance use, sexual violence, and psychological symptoms (BSI-18) in a community sample of Portuguese college students. Participants: 459 college students aged 18 to 50 years participated in this study (mean = 21.55; SD = 3.15). Methods: A survey was created online and disseminated via mailing lists and social networks, and the measurement instruments used were an informed consent form, a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Brief Symptom Inventory-18 (BSI-18), a Sexual Violence Questionnaire, and a Substance Use Questionnaire. Results: We found that men consume more substances, but women report more sexual victimization and psychological symptoms. Non-heterosexuals report significantly more sexual violence experiences and higher substance consumption and psychological symptoms than heterosexuals. Sexual victimization showed strong correlations with both substance use and psychological symptoms, while only some substances correlated with psychological symptoms. Age, gender, sexual orientation, sexual violence, and the substance “Hashish/Marijuana” were shown to be significant and strong predictors of psychological symptoms. Conclusions: As shown in previous studies, sexual and gender minorities are more at risk of experiencing sexual victimization and are more prone to consuming substances and developing psychological symptoms, except for men, who tend to consume more substances. Sexual violence and psychological symptoms are highly correlated, while the relation between substance use and psychological symptoms is not entirely clear. Our findings highlight the need for stronger educational and clinical interventions and increased mental health resources, with training on topics involving sexual violence, substance use, and addressing the specific challenges faced by minority groups, to create safer, inclusive, and more supportive Portuguese universities. Full article

Background: Menopause and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are linked to chronic low-grade inflammation. However, the role of chemokines and systemic inflammatory indices such as the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI) in perimenopausal women remains poorly understood. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated inflammatory markers, chemokines, and systemic indices in perimenopausal women recruited in Poland. Sociodemographic and health-related information was obtained using a custom questionnaire, along with anthropometric measurements and laboratory analyses. Results: A total of 230 women aged 44–65 years were included. Women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² had significantly higher IL-6 (median 4.9 vs. 2.3 pg/mL, p < 0.01) and CRP levels (3.8 vs. 1.6 mg/L, p < 0.05), as well as increased HOMA-IR (2.6 vs. 1.5, p < 0.01), compared with those with normal BMI. Positive correlations were found between SII and CXCL5 (r = 0.21, p = 0.01), and between SIRI and CXCL2 (r = 0.19, p = 0.02), CXCL5 (r = 0.23, p = 0.01), and CXCL9 (r = 0.24, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Excess body weight in perimenopausal women was associated with elevated IL-6, CRP, and insulin resistance, together with BMI-dependent correlations of chemokines with SII and SIRI. These findings highlight the potential of SII and SIRI as accessible screening tools for identifying women at risk of MetS. Future longitudinal studies are needed to confirm their predictive value and clinical applicability. Full article

Background/Objectives: Several studies indicate that physical activity is both safe and beneficial for most cancer survivors—before, during and after treatment. These benefits include improved mental health and a subsequent positive impact on quality of life. This study aimed to (1) assess the mental health of cancer survivors in terms of depression and anxiety, (2) analyze levels of physical activity within the sample, and (3) explore the relationship between psychopathological symptoms, physical activity, and perceived quality of life. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study of 55 cancer survivors, with a mean age of 62.27 ± 11.91, living in inland of Portugal and not undergoing palliative care. Data were collected using a sociodemographic, clinical and physical activity questionnaire, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core-30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), and the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ). Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach’s coefficient to assess the internal consistency, Spearman’s correlation, and multiple linear regression. Results: The results revealed significant associations between physical activity, psychopathological symptomatology, and quality of life. Specifically, the interaction between depression and physical activity had a negative impact on quality of life (B = −0.181; 95% CI −0.291 to −0.070; p = 0.002), whereas the interaction between anxiety and physical activity showed a positive effect (B = 0.165; 95% CI 0.037 to 0.293; p = 0.013). Conclusions: Physical activity enhances the quality of life of cancer survivors and moderates the negative impact of psychopathological symptoms. This highlights the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles and empowering healthcare professionals to recommend supervised physical activity as part of integrated and personalized care. Further studies should explore the relationship between other psychopathological symptoms, such as somatization, and physical activity in relation to quality of life. Full article

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the seasonal pattern of RSV infections, increasing cases outside the typical epidemic season. This study aimed to assess the pandemic’s impact on the clinical characteristics of RSV infections in children hospitalized at the Polish Mother’s Memorial Health Institute in Łódź, based on a 9-year observation period from 2016 to 2024. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 330 children hospitalized for RSV between 2016 and 2024. Patients were divided into pre-COVID-19 (2016–2020, n = 160) and post-COVID-19 (2021–2024, n = 170) groups. The hospitalization course, the treatment duration, the use of oxygen, antibiotics, systemic steroids, the patient age structure, and risk factors were compared. Results: Following the pandemic, the age profile of hospitalized RSV patients shifted, with more children over 12 months (27% post-COVID-19 vs. 18% pre-COVID-19). RSV hospitalizations increased as COVID-19 cases declined (correlation coefficient: −1.0; p < 0.001). The average hospitalization duration decreased by 1.8 days (p = 0.002). Oxygen therapy was used more frequently post-pandemic (p < 0.001), while antibiotic use decreased (51.75% vs. 81.25%; p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed in ICU transfer rates. Premature infants and children with congenital defects experienced longer hospitalizations, with a stronger correlation noted post-COVID-19 (0.38; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic changed the profile of children hospitalized with RSV, increasing the proportion of older patients. Despite shorter hospital stays, prematurity and congenital anomalies remained key risk factors for severe disease. Study limitations include its retrospective design, selection bias, and limited socio-demographic and clinical data due to pandemic-related constraints. Full article

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant global public health issue, with long-term impacts on patients. This study examines the relationship between TBI severity, as measured by the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and the Injury Severity Score (ISS) at admission, and various sociodemographic, clinical, and injury-related factors. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis using data from 164 adult TBI patients. All were admitted between March 2020 and June 2023 to two Eastern European tertiary hospitals. Variables included sex, age, education, employment, marital status, injury type and cause, place of injury, and clinical measures such as the Marshall score, AIS, and ISS. Statistical methods included Pearson’s Chi-squared, Fisher’s exact, Spearman correlation, Wilcoxon, and Kruskal–Wallis tests. Results: Most patients were male (65.9%), retired (59.8%), and urban residents (73.8%), with a mean age of 64.98 years. The most frequent mechanism of injury was falls (76.2%), typically occurring at home (61%). The predominant injury type was closed head trauma (93.3%). Most patients had mild AIS scores (75%), and the mean ISS was 6.52 (SD: 4.55). Statistically significant group differences were found for AIS among categories of Modified Marshall Score, injury type, and education categories and for ISS among categories of the Modified Marshall Score, injury type, cause and place of injury, employment status, and sex. No significant correlations were found between AIS or ISS and age or hospital length of stay. Conclusions: AIS is more anatomically focused. ISS reflects broader systemic injury patterns and is more influenced by contextual factors. These findings are particularly relevant for the Eastern European population and can help develop better healthcare policies for the region. Full article

Background: Sense of coherence constitutes a significant personal resource that underpins the harmonious professional functioning of nurses employed in psychiatric inpatient wards. It serves as a protective factor, enabling effective coping with the psychophysical burden arising from a demanding and stress-inducing work environment, while also supporting the maintenance of a high level of job satisfaction. Regular assessment of the sense of coherence among psychiatric nursing staff is essential for the early identification of individuals at risk of developing occupational burnout. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between the level of sense of coherence and the degree of occupational burnout among nurses working in inpatient psychiatric units. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design and utilized standardized psychometric instruments, including The Sense of Coherence Questionnaire (SOC-29) to assess the level of coherence, and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) to measure occupational burnout. Additionally, a self-developed questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data. The research was conducted in five psychiatric hospitals in Poland between January and June 2023. The sample consisted of 555 nurses (449 women and 106 men) employed in inpatient psychiatric wards. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficients to examine relationships between variables, and multiple linear regression to identify predictors of burnout dimensions. Significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean global sense of coherence score among psychiatric nurses was 124.68 (SD = 45.81), with manageability scoring highest among subscales (43.83, SD = 16.28). Average occupational burnout scores were emotional exhaustion 28.75 (SD = 16.39), depersonalization 13.55 (SD = 9.71), and reduced personal accomplishment 23.61 (SD = 11.11). Significant negative correlations were found between sense of coherence (and its components) and all burnout dimensions (p < 0.001). Manageability was the strongest predictor of lower emotional exhaustion (β = −0.73), depersonalization (β = −0.65), and reduced personal accomplishment (β = −0.65), while meaningfulness predicted depersonalization (β = 0.37, p = 0.012). These results indicate that higher sense of coherence, especially manageability, is linked to reduced burnout among psychiatric nurses. Conclusions: The study revealed significant negative associations between sense of coherence and all dimensions of occupational burnout, with manageability emerging as the strongest protective factor. Nurses with higher levels of sense of coherence reported lower emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating sense of coherence assessment into strategies for identifying individuals at increased risk of burnout. Full article

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is a central feature in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and a major determinant of cardiovascular morbidity. While sociodemographic and lifestyle factors are established contributors, the role of social isolation as a potential determinant of IR remains underexplored in working populations. Objectives: To assess the association between sociodemographic variables, lifestyle habits, and social isolation with three validated insulin resistance indexes—Triglyceride–Glucose (TyG), Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR), and Single Point Insulin Sensitivity Estimator (SPISE-IR)—in a large cohort of Spanish workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 117,298 workers from occupational health centers across Spain. Sociodemographic data, lifestyle factors (Mediterranean diet adherence, physical activity, and smoking), and social support levels (ENRICHD Social Support Instrument) were recorded. Biochemical and anthropometric parameters were obtained through standardized protocols. Logistic regression models estimated the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for high IR risk across the three indexes, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Male sex, older age, lower social class, smoking, low Mediterranean diet adherence, physical inactivity, and low social support were independently associated with higher odds of IR in all three indexes. The strongest associations were observed for physical inactivity (OR range 6.21–9.95) and low social support (OR range 1.98–3.76). Although effect sizes varied by index, patterns of association were consistent. Conclusions: Sociodemographic, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors, including social isolation, are strongly associated with insulin resistance in working populations. Integrating social support assessment into occupational health strategies may enhance early detection and prevention of IR and related cardiometabolic diseases. Full article

Background and Objectives: Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the loss of pigmentation, resulting in depigmented patches due to the destruction of melanocytes. This condition can lead to considerable psychological distress, and research indicates a possible connection with major depressive disorder (MDD). Nonetheless, the depth and nature of this association, particularly within the Saudi population, have not been thoroughly investigated. This case–control study seeks to explore the relationship between vitiligo and depressive symptomatology, evaluate the severity of depressive symptoms in vitiligo patients compared to control subjects, and examine the association between the clinical severity of vitiligo (assessed using the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index, VASI) and depressive symptoms (measured using the PHQ-9, a validated screening instrument based on DSM criteria). Materials and Methods: A total of 700 participants were included, comprising 340 individuals with vitiligo and 360 controls with other skin conditions. Participants completed a web-based questionnaire that collected sociodemographic data and included the PHQ-9 assessment. The severity of vitiligo was determined using the VASI. Statistical analysis involved using the computer program IBM Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) (version 26.0). Results: The average PHQ-9 score was significantly higher for patients with vitiligo (8.28 ± 7.36) compared to controls (6.30 ± 4.70, p = 0.028). While the overall rates of mild to severe depression were comparable (41.5% in vitiligo patients versus 40.3% in controls, p = 0.748), vitiligo patients exhibited higher occurrences of moderately severe depression (11.8%) and severe depression (10.9%) compared to controls (5.8% and 0.8%, respectively; p < 0.001). A weak, yet significant, positive correlation was found between VASI and PHQ-9 scores (ρ = 0.184, p < 0.001). The vulgaris and segmental types of vitiligo exhibited the highest median depression scores (PHQ-9: 11 and 9, respectively; p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that those with genital vitiligo had greater odds of experiencing depression (OR = 12.10, p = 0.039), while those with universalis vitiligo faced even higher odds (OR ≈ 26,837.84, p = 0.001). Interestingly, higher VASI scores were linked to lower odds of depression (OR = 0.927, p = 0.029). Additionally, the risk of depression significantly increased with higher income levels and among individuals aged 50 years and older. Conclusions: Although the overall prevalence of depression was not significantly different between vitiligo patients and controls, the degree of depressive symptoms was notably more severe in those with vitiligo. Specific clinical subtypes, particularly genital and universalis vitiligo, were found to be more closely associated with an increased risk of depression. These results highlight the importance of regular mental health screenings and customized psychosocial support in dermatological care, especially for high-risk groups. Full article

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) continue to pose a persistent global health challenge, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income countries where surveillance and healthcare infrastructure are constrained. Within these countries, residents of remote island communities are particularly vulnerable to emerging VBD threats; however, they remain critically understudied. We conducted a community-based cross-sectional survey of 300 residents from Shahpori Island, Bangladesh, and Gaya Island, Malaysia, to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to VBDs. Using a structured questionnaire and mixed-effects Poisson regression modeling, we identified socio-demographic predictors of VBD-related knowledge and compared KAP outcomes across the two islands. Significant disparities were observed between the two settings: the Gaya Island residents demonstrated a higher level of awareness regarding VBDs and preventive practices compared to the Shahpori residents. Education was a strong predictor of VBD knowledge, with individuals possessing secondary education or above exhibiting significantly better knowledge (β = 0.2024, p = 0.0003). Marital status was also a significant factor, with unmarried respondents showing lower levels of knowledge (β = –0.1657, p = 0.0372). Age was positively correlated with VBD knowledge (β = 0.0051, p = 0.0119), indicating a gradual increase with age, while income, gender, occupation, and household size were not significantly associated. Despite basic awareness of VBD symptoms and transmission, detailed understanding of mosquito ecology, disease symptoms, and breeding prevention strategies was remarkably poor, especially among the Shahpori residents. Our findings highlight critical gaps in VBD-related knowledge and prevention behaviors shaped by socio-economic and educational disparities. Community-focused public health strategies including educational campaigns, establishment of health infrastructure, access to trained healthcare providers, and integrated vector control interventions are urgently needed to enhance resilience against emerging VBD threats such as drug-resistant malaria in remote island populations. Full article

Introduction: The mental health of nursing professionals is an escalating global concern, particularly due to the inherently challenging work conditions they frequently encounter. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Minor Mental Disorders (MMD) and resilience levels among nursing professionals, analyzing the relationship between these constructs and identifying resilience’s potential protective role. Methods: This was a quantitative, descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 203 nursing professionals (including nursing assistants, technicians, and nurses) from two healthcare institutions in the interior of São Paulo, Brazil. Data were collected between August and October 2019. Instruments utilized included a sociodemographic and professional questionnaire, the Self-Report Questionnaire (SRQ-20) for MMD screening, and the Wagnild & Young Resilience Scale. Results: The overall prevalence of MMD in the studied sample was 31.0%. Mean scores for the SRQ-20 domains were observed as follows: Depressive/Anxious Mood (1.33), Somatic Symptoms (1.63), Reduced Vital Energy (1.77), and Depressive Thoughts (0.39). A key finding indicated that resilience did not demonstrate a significant direct predictive role on MMDs when the effect of quality of life was controlled. However, resilience showed a significant positive correlation with Quality of Life (QoL) (coef. = 0.515; p < 0.001). Furthermore, QoL emerged as a robust and statistically significant negative association with all dimensions of MMD. Discussion: These findings suggest that resilience may function as an indirect moderator or precursor to QoL, with QoL, in turn, exerting a more direct and substantial influence on the reduction of MMDs. This integrated perspective aligns with the understanding that resilience contributes to a more adaptive assessment of stressors and, consequently, to better QoL, thereby minimizing the detrimental effects of stress on mental health. Conclusion: This study reaffirms the high prevalence of Minor Mental Disorders among nursing professionals, highlighting Quality of Life as a primary target for interventions aimed at promoting mental well-being. It also emphasizes resilience as a valuable individual resource that indirectly supports mental health by enhancing QoL. A holistic understanding of occupational stressors, psychosocial, and biological mechanisms is crucial for developing effective and targeted support strategies for these essential professionals. Full article

(1) Introduction: Drug use among adolescents remains persistent, including in school settings, thus requiring attention. This study analyzed the prevalence of drug experimentation and current use among high school students and their associated factors. (2) Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 with 4610 students from public and private high schools in the Metropolitan Region of Grande Vitória, Brazil. Data were collected using tablets and a questionnaire. Sociodemographic variables were considered. Bivariate analyses and Poisson regression were used. (3) Results: Drug experimentation was reported by 22% of students (23.5% girls; 19.8% boys), and current use by 8.7% (9.2% girls; 8.0% boys). Higher lifetime use was observed among older adolescents (RP: 1.44) and those from higher socioeconomic classes (RP: 1.24). Statistically significant associations were found in LGBTQIAPN+ students (RP: 1.54 experimentation; RP: 1.76 current use) and Black students (RP: 1.33; 1.59). Being in a relationship (RP: 1.41; 1.42), currently working (RP: 1.36; 1.62), and having separated parents (RP: 1.29; 1.37) were also associated. (4) Conclusions: The high prevalence of drug use among adolescents highlights the need for targeted public policies, especially school-based actions promoting mental health, diversity, and racial equity. This study identifies vulnerable subgroups at greater risk. Full article

Background: Experiencing guilt may adversely affect employee well-being. Objectives: This study examined whether guilt proneness and both directions of work-family conflict are associated with domain-specific guilt. Methods: Sociodemographic, family-related, and professional data were collected, along with five psychological measures: the Work-Family Conflict Scale, the Five-Item Guilt Proneness Scale, the Work-Family Guilt Scale, the Job Satisfaction Survey, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 29. Results: High levels of guilt associated with work-to-family conflict were significantly correlated with lower life satisfaction and higher levels of professional responsibility (time demands, tension, and behaviors) interfering with family life. Family-to-work conflict showed a moderate-to-strong positive correlation with family-work guilt (r = 0.547, p < 0.001), and work-to-family conflict showed a moderate-to-strong positive correlation with work-family guilt (r = 0.556, p < 0.001). In addition, work-to-family conflict was weakly and negatively associated with life satisfaction (r = −0.234, p = 0.012). Conclusions: The findings of this cross-sectional study suggest that, among the health professionals surveyed, the degree of work-to-family conflict is influenced by factors such as seniority, work schedule type, and the partner’s involvement in child-rearing. Full article

Background: A health-promoting lifestyle is a concept that involves sociodemographic factors interacting with health-promoting lifestyle behaviors (HPLBs), such as exercise and nutrition, to promote health and wellbeing. Given the persistent socioeconomic disparities all over Italy, health interventions and outcomes may be less effective. Accordingly, this cross-sectional study examines the relationship among sociodemographics, HPLBs, and wellbeing in Italy, aiming to inform updated health campaigns. Methods: A Google-Form survey of twelve sociodemographic items and two validated questionnaires on HPLBs (HPLP II, twenty-six items) and wellbeing (WHO-5) was conducted. Three hundred two participants, aged 18 to 70, were recruited in Italy via social media. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05, considering effect sizes. Results: Women reported higher health responsibilities (p < 0.05) and lower BMIs than men (p < 0.001). An improved financial status was associated with the healthy cut-off points of the WHO-5, HPLP II total score, and spiritual growth and interpersonal relationship subscales (p < 0.001), the latter correlating also with university education (p < 0.05). Better nutrition was noted in older adults, those with chronic disease, and people from Northern Italy (p < 0.05). Residing with minors and adults related to health responsibility (p < 0.05). A significant correlation (p < 0.001) was found between following HPLBs and wellbeing and among all the HPLBs. Conclusions: This study underscores the interplay among sociodemographic factors, HPLBs, and wellbeing among Italian adults. The findings advocate for education-based, inclusive health promotion strategies tailored to specific macroregions, age classes, and sexes in Italy, intending to enhance overall health and wellbeing across the country. Full article

Introduction: Adequate maternal vitamin D status during pregnancy is essential for fetal skeletal development and neonatal vitamin D reserves. Evidence from Central and Eastern Europe on maternal deficiency, its determinants, and supplementation effectiveness in late pregnancy is limited. This study assessed the impact of 2000 IU/day and 4000 IU/day maternal vitamin D supplementation during the third trimester, compared to no supplementation, on maternal and neonatal 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)₂D] levels at birth, and explored sociodemographic, obstetric, dietary, and lifestyle factors affecting vitamin D status. Methods: In a cross-sectional study at Târgu Mureș County Clinical Hospital, Romania, 322 term mother–newborn pairs (37–41 weeks) from January 2021 to July 2023 were evaluated. The maternal and umbilical cord 25(OH)₂D was measured via electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Data on socioeconomic status, parity, sun exposure, diet, and supplementation were collected through questionnaires and records. Statistical analysis included chi-square, linear regression, and multivariate modeling. Results: Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency affected 32.3% and 18.9% of mothers, respectively. Supplementation was the strongest predictor of sufficiency (p < 0.01), showing a dose–response effect (r = 0.84, p < 0.01). Maternal and neonatal 25(OH)₂D levels were strongly correlated (r = 0.99, p < 0.01). Although several factors correlated with deficiency in univariate analyses, only supplementation remained significant in multivariate models. No link was found between 25(OH)₂D status and neonatal anthropometrics or early complications. Conclusions: A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency has been documented among pregnant women in Romania. High-dose supplementation during late pregnancy is critical to ensure sufficient maternal and neonatal vitamin D, highlighting the need for standardized antenatal supplementation protocols, especially in disadvantaged groups. Full article