Mean Serum Vitamin Research Articles

High prevalence and seasonal Patterns of vitamin D deficiency in children and adolescents in central China: A Three-Year Single-Center study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in children and adolescents in Central China. MethodsIn total, 8,248 children and adolescents aged 0–18 years at a children’s hospital from January 2019 to February 2022, were recruited. Their serum vitamin D levels were measured, and monthly meteorological and air pollution data were collected. ResultsThe overall mean serum vitamin D level was 37.7 ± 17.7 ng/mL, and the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was 17.7 % and 23.4 %, respectively. Children aged 13–18 years had the highest vitamin D deficiency rate (64.1 %) and the lowest sufficiency rate (4.8 %). The incidence of vitamin D deficiency in girls, especially those aged 6–13 years and 13–18 years, was higher compared to boys. The highest prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was observed in winter (23.2 %), whereas the lowest was found in autumn (12.0 %). Vitamin D insufficiency was most prevalent in summer (27.0 %), significantly higher than in other seasons. Girls were more prone than boys to vitamin D deficiency in spring and summer. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed a positive correlation between vitamin D levels, nitrogen dioxide concentrations, and sunshine hours and a negative correlation with particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5). ConclusionOur study found high vitamin D deficiency among children in central China, especially girls aged 13–18. Strategies should include promoting sunlight, reducing air pollution, and considering supplementation, particularly in spring and summer.

Filling the Gaps: Vitamin D Status in Diffuse Hair Fall Among Pakistanis

Introduction: Hair loss can happen for various reasons, including emotional stress, physical strain, certain medical issues, and nutritional gaps. When it comes to nutrition, a lack of vitamin D3 could be linked to diffuse hair loss. Objectives: The aim was to look for the frequency of vitamin D3 deficiency with diffuse hair fall especially in Pakistani population. Methods: A total of 120 patients of both genders and all ages presenting to the Dermatology Clinic with complaints of non-scarring alopecia and loss of over 100 strands of hair within a 24-hour period (counted by patient), of any duration and positive hair pull test were advised to take serum vitamin D3. Tests and results were then analyzed by SPSS statistical software package (version 19.0 for Windows). Results: The mean age of participants enrolled in the study was 28.56 ± 11.62 years. The majority of the patients, i.e., 77 (63.64%) were ≤30 years of age. Among the 120 patients, 17 were males and 103 were females. Mean serum vitamin D3 levels were 17.33 ± 5.43 ng/ml. Frequency of vitamin D3 deficiency in patients with diffuse hair fall was seen in 95 (79.17%) patients with 37 patients having female pattern hair loss, 7 patients with male pattern hair loss, 7 patients with diffuse alopecia areata, and 44 patients with telogen effluvium. Conclusions: This study concluded that there is considerable frequency of vitamin D3 deficiency in individuals with diffuse hair fall. So, we recommend that there should be early recognition and treatment of this condition in these particular patients in order to reduce hair fall.

Association of Low Vitamin D Status With Adiponectin and Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients.

Adiponectin and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) have important roles in metabolic regulation and insulin sensitivity. Vitamin D is linked to metabolic dysregulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress in chronic type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The present study aimed to assessthe relationship of vitamin D levels with adiponectin and FGF-21 in newly diagnosed T2DM. A descriptive study was conducted on 47 patients with newly diagnosed T2DM recruited based on the American Diabetes Association criteria. Fasting plasma glucose and insulin were measured, and the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance was calculated. The serum levels of metabolic regulators such as vitamin D, adiponectin, and FGF-21; inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein; and oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant status were measured. The mean serum vitamin D concentration was 17.49±7.10 ng/ml, and all patients had low vitamin D levels (<30 ng/ml). Vitamin D was positively correlated with adiponectin (r=0.331, p=0.023), and it was negatively correlated with FGF-21 (r=-0.356, p=0.014), IL-6 (r=-0.411, p=0.004), and MDA (r=-0.515, p<0.001). There was a reduction in vitamin D concentration in all subjects. Vitamin D showed a positive association with adiponectin and a negative association with FGF-21 and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers. Vitamin D deficiency might increase the risk of progression of T2DM in these subjects.

Low Serum Vitamin E Levels Positively Correlate with the Severity of Acne Vulgaris

ABSTRACT Acne vulgaris (AV) is a common disorder of the pilosebaceous, especially prevalent in adolescents. Acne vulgaris ranks among the top ten most prevalent diseases globally. Although AV may resolve spontaneously, sequelae such as scar formation can persist, causing aesthetic and psychological disturbances. There is an antioxidant to counteract acne-causing oxidative stress, vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant in the human body. Therefore, vitamin E in the skin can reduce the formation of squalene peroxide and prevent the occurrence of AV. This is an analytical observational study using a cross-sectional design. The investigation was conducted at the Dermatology and Venereology Clinic of Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah Denpasar Hospital and the laboratory of the Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, from February 2024 until the sample size was fulfilled. The sample consisted of patients aged 12-45 years with acne vulgaris who visited the clinic and were then selected through consecutive sampling according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In the non-AV group, the mean serum vitamin E level was 19.3 ± 0.99 µg/ml, whereas in the AV group, it was 4.49 ± 19.1 µg/ml, indicating a significant variance. There was a positive correlation between low vitamin E levels and the severity of AV. The linearity graph shows the direction of the relationship between serum vitamin E levels and the severity of AV, which leads to the lower right, indicating that the higher the severity of AV, the lower the serum vitamin E levels. The mean levels differed significantly between the non-AV and AV groups. A favorable association was found between low vitamin E levels and the severity of AV. Keywords: Acne Vulgaris, Severity, Serum Vitamin E, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)

Association between Serum Vitamin D Level and Parkinson’s Disease: Case Control Study in a Tertiary Level Hospital, Bangladesh

Background: Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is frequently observed in individuals who are 50 years of age or older. The etiology of this disease is still unknown, but research has shown the influence of factors like vitamin D acting as a hormone in Parkinson's disease. The current study aimed to explore the association between serum vitamin D levels and Parkinson's disease. Methods: In 2019 to 2020, the current researchers conducted this case control study on 50 patients with Parkinson’s disease and 50 healthy subjects as the control group in the department of Neurology of Sir Salimullah Medical College &amp; Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Demographic information (age, gender, and education), serum levels of vitamin D in the two groups, disease duration, disease severity, and cardinal features of the disease in the patient group were investigated. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 23 software with the t-test, Kruskal Wallis, Mann-Whitney, and adjusted logistic regression. Results: The mean age of cases was 72.30 ±454 and the control group had a mean age of 60.08±8.305. Regarding the symptoms of the cases tremor 30 (60%), rigidity 5 (10%), bradykinesia 12 (24%) and postural instability 3 (6%) and regarding disease duration (y) &lt;5 years-26 (52%), 5 to 10 years-17 (34%), &gt;10years 7 (14%) and disease severity 1 to 2.5 – 26 (52%) , 2.5-to-3 -18 (36%) and &gt;3 – 6 (12%) Serum vitamin D levels of males were 17.70±6.06 ng/mL in patients and 30.31±5.59ng/mL in control groups, respectively which is clinically significant. Serum vitamin D levels of females were 20.03±5.75ng/mL in patients and 28.53±6.31ng/mL in control groups, respectively, which is clinically significant (P = 0.001). For the participants under 60 years of age, the mean serum vitamin D levels were 27.70±0.00 ng/mL and 30.78±5.44 ng/mL in patient and control groups, respectively. In participants aged 60 and older, the mean serum vitamin D levels were 18.40±5.91 ng/mL and 28.13±6.26 ng/mL in patient and control groups, respectively. These differences were statistically significant (P=0.001).Logistic regression analysis with adjusted demographic variables showed that the observed lower levels of serum vitamin D in cases compared with the control group was statistically significant(OR=4.17;95% CI:1.37,12.71;P=0.012). Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between low serum vitamin D and Parkinson’s disease. Bangladesh J Medicine 2024; 35: 180-186

A comparative study of hormonal contraceptive use and vitamin D levels at Gondar Town 2023.

Vitamin D deficiency is an emerging public health problem globally, with devastating health consequences. Some studies suggest that exogenous sex hormones, found in hormonal contraceptives, may enhance vitamin D levels. However, the reasons for this association are not fully understood, as women using hormonal contraception may have different lifestyle habits affecting their vitamin D status. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the relationship between hormonal contraceptive use and vitamin D levels. A Facility based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in Gondar town from February to April 2023, involving a total of 162 women using three types of hormonal contraceptives (Norplant, DMPA, and COC) and 162 age and BMI-matched non-users as controls in a 1:1 ratio. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collected data regarding the socio-demographic, economic, obstetric, lifestyle, and clinical information. 5 milliliters of blood samples were collected from each participant for Laboratory analysis of serum vitamin D, calcium, and alkaline phosphates using a Beckman Coulter chemistry analyzer. Independent t-tests, ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni test was used to compare statistics between the two groups, and logistic regression models to identify factors associated with Vitamin D deficiency. The mean serum Vitamin D levels of Norplant, DMPA, and COC users were 24.08 (± 5.17), 24.83 (± 5.52), and 31.90 (± 6.94) respectively; whereas control group has mean Vitamin D level of 22.00 (± 7.97). On the current study the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/ml) among hormonal contraceptive users was found to be 21.6% (35/162), whereas 48.14% (78/162) of non-user controls had vitamin D deficiency. The odds of having Vitamin D deficiency was higher among participants who attained higher education, who never eat fish and have never been used vitamin D Supplements. However, the use of combined oral contraceptives (COC) shown to reduce the odd of having vitamin D deficiency by 90%. Similarly, individuals with normal and hypercalcemia state shown to have lower odd of having Vitamin D deficiency. Users of combined oral contraceptives (COC) had significantly higher mean serum Vitamin D levels compared to users of Norplant and DMPA, as well as non-users. The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency was lower among COC users compared to non-users, highlighting a potential protective effect of COC use against Vitamin D deficiency.

The Association of Serum Vitamin D Levels with Lung Function, Symptom Severity, and Exacerbations in Stable COPD Patients

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a significant health burden associated with a decrease in quality of life. Patients with the disease often have a deficiency of Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin important for respiratory health. A previous study suggested an association between low vitamin D levels and poor lung function, as well as increased exacerbation, and more severe COPD symptom. Therefore, this study aimed to assess serum vitamin D levels in stable COPD patients and explore association with lung function, symptom severity, and frequency of exacerbation. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from May to July 2023 at Lung Polyclinic of Dr. Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital (RSUDZA) Banda Aceh. A total of 30 subjects selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. Results: The results showed that the mean serum vitamin D level was 26.25 ng/mL, with 56.7% of subjects showing vitamin D insufficiency. Statistical analysis showed p-values of 0.58, 0.637, 0.12, and 0.98 for lung function, exacerbation, COPD Assessment Test (CAT), and Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnoea scale respectively, indicating no significant association between vitamin D levels and these outcomes. Potential confounding factors include unassessed variables such as medication use, educational background, and psychological status. Conclusion: This study found no significant association between serum vitamin D levels and lung function, symptom severity, or frequency of exacerbation in stable COPD patients. Further studies with a larger sample size and extended follow-up are needed to confirm these results and explore additional influencing factors.

Assessment of vitamin D status in obese and non-obese patients: A case-control study

BackgroundVitamin D is an essential component of healthy bones and its deficiency is widespread in obese patients. Through our study, we aimed to look into vitamin D status in obese and non-obese patients and determine its association with hypertension, glucose levels, and lipid profiles. Patients and methodsA case-control study was laid out to compare serum Vitamin D levels between obese patients and controls. Obese patients (n= 67) over 18 years old were recruited from our Endocrinology-Diabetology and Nutrition department between March 2018 and September 2023. Controls (n = 60) were randomly assigned and were matched for age, sex, glycated hemoglobin, ethnicity, and geographic area. The levels of Vitamin D in the serum were determined in obese patients and non-obese controls. ResultsAverage serum Vitamin D concentration was established in both groups, reaching 10,41±4,2 ng/ml in obese patients and 15,14±6,1 ng/ml in the control group. The mean serum Vitamin D was significantly lower in the obese group (p = 0,000). A positive correlation was noticed between body fat and serum Vitamin D (p < 0,05). A significant correlation between vitamin D status and glycated hemoglobin in the obese group (p = 0,047) was found, whereas it was insignificant in the control group (p = 0,966). In addition, the correlation between vitamin D, blood pressure, and body mass index was significant (p= 0.004) as well as between vitamin D and triglycerides (p= 0.015) and cholesterol (p= 0.014). ConclusionVitamin D deficiency is common in obese patients, as highlighted by our study, which is in line with other findings. This may be explained by the fact that vitamin D must be supplied at a greater volume in obese patients. A significant correlation between BMI, vitamin D, glycated hemoglobin, blood pressure, triglycerides, and total cholesterol was found. The pathophysiology behind this association is complex. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between vitamin D, adipose tissue, and the other components of metabolic syndrome.

Estimation of vitamin D status and calcium level among pregnant women in Tikrit city: case control study

The demand for calcium and vitamin D rises during pregnancy, increasing the chance of hypocalcemia and vitamin D deficiency. Hypocalcemia may be associated with pregnancy-related complications. This study thus sought to ascertain the frequency of hypocalcemia and vitamin D insufficiency in pregnant women seeking secondary care, as well as to explore the possible associations between these disorders and pregnancy outcomes. Subjects, Materials and method: This study was conducted without the use of vitamin D supplements in the first, second, and third trimesters at gestational ages more than 40 weeks, even before the convenience sample number 36 became pregnant. Control groups for Case number 10 non pregnant women. The age of cases and control women in range from 20-35years. Using the Roche Cobas e411 immunoassay device, we calculated the serum concentrations of calcium and vitamin D. The study carried out between December 2023 and February 2024 in Tikrit Teaching Hospital. Results: A total of 36 pregnant women were enrolled in the study Mean (SD) serum Vitamin D level was 17.9±0.12mg/dl pregnant women with First trimester, 11.8± 0.18mg/dl pregnant women with second trimester and 10.5 ± 0.20mg/dl pregnant women with third trimester compared with control groups 44.4 ± 0.40 (p-value = &lt;0.001). As well as Mean (SD) serum calcium level was (7.9±0.10, 8.2± 0.18, 7.5 ± 0.20 mg/dl) pregnant women with First, second and third trimester respectively, compared with control groups 8.4 ± 0.40 (p-value = 0.06).

Vitamin D deficiency and its impact on outcomes in myocardial infarction patients: a prospective observational study

Objectives: Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, but its impact on outcomes in myocardial infarction (MI) patients remains unclear. This study investigated the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and short-term and medium-term outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction. Ischemic heart diseases (IHD) are the most common cause of death in the world. Identifying risk factors and predictors can play a critical role in identifying high-risk people in screenings, identifying high-risk patients during admission to the hospital, and adjusting these risk factors in patients to improve prognosis. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted on 212 patients diagnosed with myocardial infarction at Seyed al-Shohada Hospital in Urmia, Iran. Having been admitted, the patients had their serum vitamin D levels measured using the same blood sample for routine tests. Levels of vitamin D were categorized as normal (&gt;30 ng/ml), insufficient (21-29 ng/ml), or deficient (&lt;20 ng/ml). The patient's files provided the demographic, clinical, and biomedical information, echocardiography, and angiography data. The patients were followed for at least six months post-MI, with a maximum follow-up of 11 months. Follow-up occurred through monthly phone calls and outpatient clinic visits as needed. Primary outcomes included in-hospital complications (such as death, significant bleeding, acute pulmonary edema, cardiogenic shock, and arrhythmias), cardiac readmissions, and mortality. Logistic regression and Cox regression analyses were used to examine the connection between outcome variables and vitamin D levels, adjusting for potential confounders including age, gender, blood pressure, diabetes, blood lipids, creatinine, disease severity (SYNTAX score*), and left ventricular ejection fraction. The mean serum level of vitamin D in patients on admission was 33. 62 ng/dL. The average number of hospitalization days was 4.8 days, and the rate of re-hospitalization was 26.6% in the six-month follow-up and 30.3% in the 9-month follow-up. The hospital mortality rate was equal to 1.4%, and the mortality rate at the end of the follow-up period was equal to 8.3%. The most common complication during hospitalization among the patients was ventricular tachycardia. However, in follow-up, re-hospitalization due to previous issues was the most common complication. Results: The mean serum vitamin D level was 33. 62 ng/ml,with 52.8% of patients having insufficient or deficient levels. The most common in-hospital complication was ventricular tachycardia (11.5%). Vitamin D deficiency was not significantly associated with in-hospital complications. However, during the follow-up period, vitamin D deficiency was significantly related to increased risk of readmission to hospital (HR: 6.984, 95% CI: 3.500-13.936, p&lt;0.001). The 6-month readmission rate was 26.6%, increasing to 30.3% at 9 months. Vitamin D deficiency was also associated with increased cardiac mortality (HR: 12.936, 95% CI: 1.494- 112.016, p=0.020) during follow-up. The 9-month mortality rate was 8.3%. Other factors contributing to cardiac mortality included disease severity (SYNTAX score) and female gender. Conclusions: While vitamin D deficiency did not impact short-term complications, it was associated with increased risk of hospitalreadmission and mortality in MI patients during medium-term follow-up. These findings suggest that vitamin D status can significantly impact long-term outcomes for MI patients

Association of Serum Vitamin D Levels with Inflammatory Markers in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients

Background: In recent years, global concern has focused on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Multiple studies have suggested a potential connection between 1,25-dihydroxy Vitamin D levels and patient prognosis. Inflammatory markers have been identified as useful indicators for assessing the prognosis of hospitalized patients. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between Vitamin D levels, inflammatory markers, and patient prognosis in cases of COVID-19. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study included 906 patients with COVID-19. Serum Vitamin D levels were measured and categorized into three groups: less than 20 ng/mL, between 20–30 ng/mL, and more than 30 ng/mL. Additionally, inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), were evaluated. The study also addressed the analysis of CT scan findings and patient prognosis. Results: Of the total patients, 497 (54.9%) were male and 409 were female. The mean serum Vitamin D level was 40.10 ± 37.06 ng/mL, while the mean LDH and mean WBC levels were recorded at 696.38 ± 610.19 U/L and 9058.46 ± 6309.80 per microliter, respectively. CRP levels were classified as +1 in 296 patients (32.7%), +2 in 260 patients (28.7%), and +3 in 7 patients (0.8%). In terms of patient prognosis, 62 patients (6.8%) required intubation, and the mortality rate was 18.0% (163 patients). A statistically significant relationship was found between serum Vitamin D and LDH levels (p = 0.015). The findings indicated an insignificant relationship of serum Vitamin D levels with lymphocyte levels (p = 0.619), body mass index (BMI; p = 0.225), and CRP levels (p = 0.985). Furthermore, no relationship was found between patient mortality and serum Vitamin D levels (p = 0.5). Conclusion: Although Vitamin D has confirmed immunomodulatory effects in many studies, this study found no significant relationship between serum Vitamin D levels and mortality or other inflammatory markers in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. However, a statistically significant correlation was observed between LDH levels and serum Vitamin D.

Vitamin D Deficiency as a Factor Associated with Neuropathic Pain in Multibacillary Type Morbus Hansen

Objective: Morbus Hansen (MH), caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is marked by neuropathic pain. Prior studies link low vitamin D levels to diabetic neuropathic pain, yet research on its role in MH-related neuropathic pain is limited. This study investigates the role of vitamin D deficiency in MH-related neuropathic pain. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among multibacillary (MB) MH patients at Prof. Dr. I.G.N.G. Ngoerah Hospital, Bali from April to August 2023. Neuropathic pain was assessed using the Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questionnaire, while serum 25(OH)D levels determined vitamin D status. The cutoff for deficiency was determined via ROC curve analysis. Results: Among 42 participants, those without neuropathic pain exhibited higher mean serum vitamin D levels than those with neuropathic pain (28.69 ± 8.16 vs. 22.11 ± 9.54 ng/ml; p=0.021). The ROC curve identified a cutoff value of 30.25 ng/ml, categorizing participants into vitamin D deficiency (&lt;30.25 ng/ml) and non-deficiency (≥30.25 ng/ml) groups. Bivariate analysis revealed a heightened incidence of neuropathic pain among MH patients with serum vitamin D levels below the designated cutoff point (OR: 6.60; 95%CI: 1.484-29.355; p=0.022). Multivariate analysis indicated that two variables significantly correlated with neuropathic pain in MH patients: vitamin D deficiency (OR: 14.337; 95%CI: 2.431-84.542; p=0.003) and peripheral nerve enlargement (OR: 12.564; 95%CI: 2.096-75.307; p=0.006). Conclusion: Disparities in average vitamin D levels were observed between MH patients with and without neuropathic pain. Vitamin D deficiency, alongside peripheral nerve enlargement, emerged as significant risk factors for neuropathic pain in MH patients.

Serum Vitamin D Level in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and it’s Association with IBD Activity Abstract

Vitamin D influences innate immunity, which is believed to be the imbalance of it involved in the pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Evidence exists on the association between vitamin D deficiency and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To assess the serum vitamin D concentration in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and to study the relationship of vitamin D level with disease activity in the patients with inflammatory bowel disease. This case-control study was carried out in the department of Gastroenterology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) on 40 IBD cases, diagnosed on clinical background and 40 apparently healthy control group of similar age and sex. Blood samples were collected and serum vitamin D level was measured with Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) method in Biochemistry laboratory of BSMMU. The result were analyzed by SPSS version 22. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were defined as serum concentration of ≤20 ng/ml and 21–29 ng/ml respectively. Disease activity were evaluated using the Harvey Bradshaw Index for Crohn’s Disease, Truelove and Witt’s Index for Ulcerative colitis. The vitamin D levels were correlated with disease activity in IBD patients comparing with control group. Mean (±SD) serum vitamin D levels were 16.27 ± 5.16 ng/ml in IBD group and 24.25 ± 6.69 in controls (p &lt;0.001). Almost all (97 %) of IBD patients had low serum vitamin D in comparison to controls; more than three-fourth (77.5%) of the patients of IBD exhibited deficiency (˂20 ng/ml), one-fifth (20%) had insufficiency (21-29 ng/ml) of serum vitamin D, whereas in the controls 30% had deficiency, 42.5% had insufficiency, and 27.5% had sufficient serum vitamin D. There was highly significant inverse correlation between vitamin D level and disease activity in IBD patients. The study showed that IBD patients had significantly lower serum vitamin D levels in comparison to controls. Serum vitamin D concentration is inversely correlated with disease activity in IBD patients. The study suggests that inadequate vitamin D level, along with other factors, probably contributes to the development of active disease in patients with IBD. Bangladesh Med J. 2023 May; 52(2): 20-28

Emerging role of vitamin D deficiency as a risk factor for retinal venous occlusions and need for public health measures for its prevention.

To estimate levels of serum vitamin D in patients of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and compare with age- and sex-matched controls. A prospective case-control study of 54 patients of RVO and 54 age- and sex-matched attendants of patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Delhi was performed. Patients on vitamin D supplementations and RVO due to infective or immunological causes or patients of glaucoma were excluded. Serum vitamin D levels of all the study participants along with relevant blood investigations with history and examination were documented. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as <20 ng/ml. The mean serum vitamin D levels seen in RVO patients and the control group were 14.19 ± 5.23 ng/ml and 19.42 ± 10.27 ng/ml, respectively (P value = 0.001) with an odds ratio of 10.558 (CI = 2.34-47.50), indicating vitamin D deficiency to be strongly correlated with RVO. Maximum patients of RVO (46.3%) were seen during the winter season. The study noted hypertension [odds ratio 20.22 (CI = 5.812-70.347)], dyslipidemia, and anemia [odds ratio 4.107 (CI = 0.62-26.90)] to be the risk factors for RVO as previously proved in the literature. Smoking, diabetes, alcohol intake, and body mass index did not emerge as risk factors for RVO. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with RVO; hence, estimation of serum vitamin D levels should be advised as a part of routine investigations while looking for the cause of RVOs. Public health measures like food fortification with vitamin D micronutrients and public awareness towards increased sunlight exposure in the community are simple, inexpensive measures that can decrease the burden of sight-threatening disease of RVO in the community.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Vitamin D, Calcium and Phosphate Deficiency among Apparently Healthy Children Aged 6-24 Months in a Semi-urban Community in Southwest, Nigeria.

Adequate levels of calcium, phosphate and Vitamin D are essential for bone physiology and growth, as well as preventing some common childhood illnesses. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of the deficiencies of these nutrients and factors affecting their serum levels in Nigerian children. This was a cross-sectional study that involved 220 apparently healthy children aged 6-24 months in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Serum calcium and phosphate were assayed using the calorimetric method, while Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) was assayed with ELISA. The mean (±standard deviation [SD]) serum Vitamin D level was 55.07 ± 16.53 ng/ml, while the mean (±SD) serum calcium and phosphate were 2.27 ± 0.13 mmol/l and 1.28 ± 0.18 mmol/l, respectively. Eleven (5%) of the children had hypovitaminosis D, 23 (10.5%) had hypocalcaemia and 12 (5.5%) had hypophosphataemia. Factors found to be significantly associated with hypovitaminosis D included low consumption of milk and the use of a hijab veil, while malnutrition (both undernutrition and overnutrition) was significantly associated with hypocalcaemia. The prevalence levels of hypovitaminosis D and hypophosphataemia were low, while hypocalcaemia was more common. Low milk consumption and use of a hijab veil were risk factors for hypovitaminosis D, while malnutrition was a risk factor for hypocalcaemia. Malnourished children, especially overnourished ones, should be routinely screened for hypocalcaemia because of its high prevalence among them.

Hypovitaminosis D is A Biological Vulnerability for Depressive Symptoms in Major Depression at the Era of the Coronavirus Disease Outbreak

Abstract Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent mental health condition causing substantial global issues. Emerging evidence indicates that depression rates have risen during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Insufficient vitamin D levels have been linked to increased psychological problems and heightened responses to stress. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the connection between serum vitamin D levels and depressive symptoms in individuals with MDD compared to healthy controls during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 90 MDD patients diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Illnesses (DSM)-5 criteria version 7.0.2, assessed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. During COVID-19 lockdown measures, participants completed the Patient Health Questionnaire depression module (PHQ-9) to assess depressive severity. Blood samples were collected for vitamin D assays. Statistical analyses were conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), including receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to predict depressive symptom severity. Results: Patient and control groups had similar mean age and body mass index (BMI), with most participants classified as obese (BMI &gt; 30 kg/m2). Female patients were predominant in the study. MDD patients exhibited significantly lower mean serum vitamin D levels compared to controls (10.3 ± 6.2 vs. 18.1 ± 9.6 ng/mL). Female patients had higher vitamin D levels than males. Correlations among serum vitamin D levels, BMI, MDD duration, and age were insignificant. ROC curve analysis indicated that lower vitamin D levels moderately predict MDD presence (area under curve [AUC] = 0.750) and, to a lesser extent, severe MDD (AUC = 0.739). Conclusion: The study suggests an inverse association between serum vitamin D levels and clinical depression during the COVID-19 era. However, the evidence is not entirely conclusive, prompting the need for further randomized trials to determine whether this relationship is causal.

Association Between Vitamin D and Asymptomatic Hyperuricaemia Among Adults––An Observational Study

Introduction: The relationship between Vitamin D levels and asymptomatic hyperuricaemia is gaining attention due to its potential implications for public health. This study investigates this association, focussing on the interplay between Vitamin D, serum uric acid and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in adults. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study, conducted from April to June 2023, involved 100 adult participants (65 males, 35 females) from the general population. Participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data collection included a comprehensive questionnaire, physical examinations and blood sample analysis. Vitamin D levels were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, uric acid levels through an enzymatic colorimetric test, and PTH levels via a chemiluminescent immunoassay. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, IBM Corp, Chicago, IL, USA. Results: The study found an inverse correlation between Vitamin D and serum uric acid levels. Participants with lower Vitamin D levels had higher serum uric acid and PTH levels. The mean serum Vitamin D level was 32.17 ng/mL, and the mean serum uric acid level was 9.99 mg/dL. The study categorised Vitamin D levels as deficient, insufficient and sufficient, observing significant variations in PTH and uric acid levels across these categories. Conclusion: The study suggests a significant relationship between Vitamin D levels and serum uric acid concentrations in adults, with implications for the management of asymptomatic hyperuricaemia and related metabolic conditions. Despite limitations, such as the cross-sectional design and small sample size, this study highlights the potential significance of Vitamin D levels in the management of asymptomatic hyperuricaemia and related metabolic disorders.

Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Singaporean Perspective.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the primary vestibular disorder causing peripheral vertigo. Given the role of vitamin D in maintaining otoconia homeostasis, its deficiency may elevate the risk of BPPV. Our study seeks to evaluate the correlation between vitamin D deficiency and clinical outcomes of patients with BPPV in the local Asian population. We performed a retrospective analysis of 149 consecutive adult patients referred to a tertiary center's Otolaryngology dizziness clinic between 2018 and 2021. All of these patients had both BPPV and vitamin D deficiency. The mean serum vitamin D level was 19.4 ± 5.5 ng/mol. Approximately 51.7% (77/149) of patients experienced recurrent episodes of BPPV. Univariate Chi-square analyses demonstrated vitamin D levels (P < 0.001) and history of migraine (P= 0.04) were related to BPPV recurrence. On multivariate analyses, patients with higher serum vitamin D levels were 16.7% less likely to develop recurrent BPPV (odds ratio [OR] 0.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76-0.90, P< 0.001). However, migraine history was not significantly related to BPPV recurrence (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.14-1.00, P= 0.050). There was no statistically significant difference in the duration of BPPV episodes based on vitamin D levels (P = 0.327). Patients with vitamin D deficiency are at higher risk of recurrent BPPV. Future research directions that would be beneficial include conducting a randomized controlled trial to evaluate both the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation and its optimal dosage.

Comparison of Serum Vitamin D Level between Outdoor and Indoor Working Professionals and Its Correlation with Serum Parathyroid Hormone Level

Background: Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is functionally linked to vitamin D for calcium homeostasis in our body. Objective: To compare serum vitamin D level between outdoor and indoor working professionals of Dhaka city, Bangladesh, and observe its correlation with serum PTH level. Methods: This cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July 2018 to June 2019. A total of 101 indoor and outdoor professional workers of both sexes working in different sectors living in Dhaka city participated in this study. They were divided into two groups –outdoor workers (n=35) and indoor workers (n=66) Estimations of both serum vitamin D3 and PTH were done using chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay method. Statistical analysis was done by students unpaired t tests and Pearson correlation coefficient test. Results: Among outdoor workers, mostly hailed from Traffic Police Services (83%) and the rest (17%). were street hawkers. Indoor workers were recruited from the hospital – nurses (32%), doctors (27%), administrative employees (21%), hospital ward assistants (12%) and medical technicians (8%). Sufficient and insufficient levels of serum D3 were observed more in outdoor professional workers than indoor (P&lt;0.05) whereas deficient levels of serum D3 was found more in indoor workers than outdoor workers (P&lt;0.001). Mean serum vitamin D3 level was found significantly (P&lt;0.001).higher in outdoor workers than that of indoor workers (19.35±5.67ng/ml vs. 14.17±4.18ng/ml) but mean serum PTH level was not significantly different (P&gt;0.05)r in outdoor workers than that of indoor workers (42.35±18.27 vs. 37.78±17.54); Moreover, there was no significant correlation between serum vitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels in both outdoor (r= +0.290; p &gt;0.05) and indoor (r= –0.206; p&gt;0.05) groups .Conclusion: Our data concluded that indoor working professionals were more prone to develop vitamin D deficiency although outdoor working professionals may be affected with vitamin D insufficiency. In addition, there may be no relationship between serum vitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels even in D deficient indoor workers. J Bangladesh Soc Physiol 2022;17(2): 78-84

The evaluation of serum vitamin D3 in androgenetic alopecia: a case-control study

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common hereditary condition characterized by progressive hair loss influenced by androgens. Vitamin D has been implicated in various hair disorders, yet its association with AGA, particularly in South Asian populations, remains inconclusive. Methods: We conducted a case-control study involving 100 male subjects from eastern Uttar Pradesh, India, comprising 50 AGA cases and 50 age-matched controls. Serum vitamin D levels were measured, and participants underwent clinical evaluations. Statistical analyses were performed using unpaired t tests and chi-square tests. Results: Vitamin D deficiency (&lt;20 ng/ml) was significantly more prevalent in AGA cases (56%) compared to controls (24%) (p&lt;0.001), with an odds ratio of 4.0303. Mean serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in cases (33.1±10.6 ng/ml) than controls (40.3±9.51 ng/ml) (p=0.0005). Severe AGA cases exhibited lower vitamin D levels compared to mild to moderate cases, although the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.32). Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of vitamin D in AGA pathogenesis and suggests the need for routine monitoring of serum vitamin D levels in AGA patients. Further large-scale studies are warranted to confirm these findings and investigate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation as a therapeutic intervention for AGA.