Association between Serum Vitamin D Level and Acute Ischemic Stroke

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of death globally, with cardiovascular disease risk factors being critical.
• Low vitamin D levels are associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk and overall mortality.
• Understanding vitamin D status in acute ischemic stroke patients is crucial for potential preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine and compare serum vitamin D levels in patients with acute ischemic stroke versus healthy controls.
• To investigate the association between vitamin D levels and other metabolic factors in stroke patients.

Main Methods:

• A comparative cross-sectional study involving 100 participants (50 acute ischemic stroke patients and 50 healthy controls).
• Serum vitamin D levels, fasting plasma glucose, and lipid profiles were measured in both groups.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare parameters between the groups, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Main Results:

• Patients with acute ischemic stroke had significantly higher fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels compared to controls.
• The mean serum vitamin D level was significantly lower in the ischemic stroke group (25.28±8.47 ng/ml) than in the control group (30.90±5.80 ng/ml) (p=0.001).
• Vitamin D insufficiency was observed in 52% of stroke patients versus 30% of controls, and deficiency in 20% versus 10%, respectively (p=0.0002).

Conclusions:

• This study indicates a significant positive association between low serum vitamin D levels and acute ischemic stroke.
• The findings suggest that vitamin D insufficiency is prevalent in patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke.
• Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of vitamin D supplementation in improving outcomes for ischemic stroke patients.