Relationship between vitamin D deficiency and preeclampsia

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with several adverse pregnancy outcomes. Aim: The current study aimed to determine the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and preeclampsia. Research Design: A case control design. Setting: The study was conducted at the antenatal clinic at Al zahraa hospital – Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt. Sample: Purposive sample (120 pregnant women), was divided into study group (n=60) and control group (n=60). Tools: Two tools for data collection. First tool: A structured interviewing questionnaire which used to assess demographic data, obstetrical history, family history, physical examination to diagnose preeclampsia and laboratory investigation to confirm the diagnosis. Second tool: Serum vitamin D levels of both groups were measured by using an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique. Result: Significant lower mean vitamin D of study group compared to control group with highly statistical significant difference between both groups. In addition, there were 3-fold increased odds of developing preeclampsia in pregnant women who had vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/ml). Also, observed that when vitamin D level decreases, the severity of preeclampsia increases.