Vitamin D levels in postmenopausal women and their relationship with diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D (VD) plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism and bone growth and has emerging roles beyond the skeleton. Deficiency is linked to various health issues, especially in postmenopausal women. The burden of T2DM in India, particularly among women, emphasizes the need for exploring the VD-diabetes connection. Aim and Objective: To investigate VD levels in postmenopausal women with T2DM compared to premenopausal women, assessing the association between VD deficiency and glycemic control. Materials and Methods: A case–control study was conducted in Chennai, India, involving pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women with T2DM. Ethical clearance was obtained, and participants were recruited with informed consent. Fifty pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women, each with T2DM, were included. Exclusions involved individuals taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, anticonvulsants, and those afflicted with osteoporosis, renal disease, asthma, and hypertension. Blood samples were collected for glucose and VD level assessments, employing standard methodologies. Results: Pre-menopausal women exhibited significantly higher VD levels compared to their post-menopausal counterparts. Blood sugar levels did not significantly differ based on menopausal status. Conclusion: This study contributes valuable insights into the complex interplay between VD, menopausal status, and glycemic control in women with T2DM. The high prevalence of VD deficiency and its association with suboptimal glycemic control emphasize the need for further research. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing targeted interventions for postmenopausal women with diabetes.