Association of Vitamin D with Risk Factors for Coronary Artery Disease

Ramya Bakthavatchalam1, Sriram Bakthavatchalam2, Indhu Chandran3

  • 1Department of Biochemistry, Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu, India.

Maedica
|February 13, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to higher rates of diabetes and more severe coronary artery disease (CAD). Maintaining adequate vitamin D may reduce risks associated with cardiovascular disease.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Endocrinology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Vitamin D plays a role in cardiovascular health by modulating inflammation and atheroma development.
  • This study investigated the relationship between vitamin D levels, coronary artery disease (CAD), and associated risk factors like diabetes and lipid profiles.
  • Coronary angiogram data and biochemical markers were analyzed in patients presenting with cardiac symptoms.

Discussion:

  • Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent and associated with a higher incidence of diabetes mellitus and triple-vessel disease.
  • Lower vitamin D levels correlated significantly with elevated HbA1c and increased severity of CAD, particularly triple-vessel disease.
  • The study highlights vitamin D deficiency as a potential risk factor for both single and triple-vessel CAD.

Key Insights:

  • Patients with vitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL showed a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus and triple-vessel disease.
  • Multivariable analysis indicated a significant association between vitamin D levels and the severity of CAD.
  • A significant negative correlation was observed between HbA1c levels and vitamin D, and between vitamin D and triple-vessel disease.

Outlook:

  • Further research is warranted to explore the causal relationship between vitamin D deficiency and CAD progression.
  • Investigating the impact of vitamin D supplementation on cardiovascular outcomes in deficient individuals is crucial.
  • Clinical guidelines may benefit from incorporating vitamin D assessment in the management of patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

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