Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Diet Mediates Vaso-Occlusive Related Hospitalizations in Sickle-Cell Disease Patients

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder characterized by mutated hemoglobin S.
• Patients with SCD often exhibit severe vitamin D deficiency.
• Vaso-occlusive crises are a common and debilitating manifestation of SCD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between vitamin D status and healthcare utilization for sickle cell disease crises.
• To explore dietary and behavioral factors influencing SCD crisis frequency and severity.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of de-identified patient records from the Sickle Cell Clinic of Southern Louisiana (2010-2014).
• A survey administered to 102 SCD patients assessing sun exposure, diet, and pain.
• Correlation of vitamin D levels (25(OH)D₃) with emergency room (ER) and hospital visit data.

Main Results:

• Patients with vitamin D levels below 14.1 ng/mL had significantly more crisis-related hospital visits (10 per year) compared to those with levels above 34 ng/mL.
• Infrequent consumption of fish and milk was associated with higher rates of hospital stays and ER visits.
• Daily intake of fish and milk correlated with fewer SCD-related ER visits.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D deficiency is linked to increased healthcare utilization in sickle cell disease patients.
• Dietary patterns, specifically consumption of fish and milk, may play a role in mitigating SCD crisis frequency.
• Further research into vitamin D supplementation and dietary interventions for SCD management is warranted.