Role of Vitamin D in Cerebrovascular Disease

Vitamin D deficiency is now a well-recognized public health problem affecting almost every second person throughout the world. Recent evidence from many population-based studies has indicated that a poor vitamin D status is a predictor of future strokes.

We reviewed recent studies on 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and symptomatic ischemic stroke. A graded increase in the risk of symptomatic ischemic stroke with decreasing levels of plasma 25(OH)D has been found in most of the studies. Vitamin D also has a role in the poststroke period where its deficiency may hinder the rehabilitation process.

After reviewing current literature on the subject, we conclude that there are some data to suggest the role of vitamin D in patients with stroke but it cannot be concluded as a risk factor for stroke. Larger population-based studies are needed to confirm the causative role of vitamin D in stroke.