Vitamin D Status and Oxidative Stress in Children with Sickle Cell Anaemia in Sagamu, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is characterized by nutritional deficiencies and oxidative stress. Vitamin D possesses antioxidant properties but its role in SCA in sub-Saharan Africa has not been fully understood. The relationship between Vitamin D status, oxidative stress and antioxidants status in children with SCA was investigated for its possible role in reducing complications arising from oxidative stress in SCA. Methods: Case-control study involving 100 HbS genotype and 100 HbA genotype children (control) of comparable age (5-12 years). Baseline characteristics were obtained and serum vitamin D, calcium, CAT, SOD, GPX, GST and XO levels were quantified by standard laboratory methods. Results: Serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, CAT, SOD, GPX and GST were significantly lower in SCA group compared to the control, while the XO level was significantly higher in the HbS group compared with control. There was positive correlation between vitamin D, CAT and SOD (r = 0.821, 0.869), weak positive association between vitamin D and Ca (r = 0.545) and no significant relationship between vitamin D and other measurands in the SCA group. Conclusion: Sufficient vitamin D status might impact positively on the antioxidant status in SCA individuals thereby reducing associated complications.