Association between Average Vitamin D Levels and COVID-19 Mortality in 19 European Countries-A Population-Based Study

Area of Science:

• * Epidemiology and Public Health
• * Nutritional Science
• * Infectious Disease Research

Background:

• * Initial reports suggested a link between low vitamin D levels and increased COVID-19 mortality.
• * Limited recent data exists on the impact of vitamin D on COVID-19 outcomes.
• * This study addresses the need for updated research on vitamin D and COVID-19 mortality.

Approach:

• * Utilized multi-country data from 19 European nations up to June 2023.
• * Collected COVID-19 data from Our World in Data and vitamin D data via literature review.
• * Employed a generalized estimation equation model for statistical analysis.

Key Points:

• * Countries with average 25(OH) vitamin D levels >50 nmol/L showed lower COVID-19 mortality (RR = 0.794).
• * A significant negative correlation was found between average vitamin D levels and COVID-19 mortality.
• * Higher average vitamin D levels were associated with significantly reduced COVID-19 mortality rates.

Conclusions:

• * Elevated average 25(OH) vitamin D levels are associated with decreased COVID-19 mortality in European countries.
• * Further randomized trials on vitamin D supplementation are warranted.
• * The role of vitamin D in national pandemic preparedness requires consideration.