In a nutshell
This study investigated if vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is associated with subclinical myocardial injury (SC-MI) in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). They found that VDD is linked to SC-MI, particularly in men.
Some background
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) can be caused by a number of factors. Poor diet is a risk factor for CVD. Several studies have identified a link between low vitamin D (VDD) and CVD. However, vitamin D supplementation does not appear to improve CVD outcomes. All of these studies have looked at patients with confirmed CVD.
Some patients may have CVD-related events. These can be mild and may not be clinically symptomatic. Subclinical myocardial (heart) injury (SC-MI) is one example of this. SC-MI can be identified using an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG records the heart wave pattern. It is unclear if VDD is associated with SC-MI.
Methods & findings
This study analyzed data from 6,079 patients. Vitamin D levels were measured in a blood sample from each patient. ECG was performed to determine SC-MI.
VDD was also associated with other CVD risk factors. These include high blood pressure and higher than normal weight. VDD was linked to SC-MI. Vitamin D levels below 20 ng/ml were associated with SC-MI, regardless of other CVD factors. The highest levels of SC-MI were seen in patients with the lowest levels of vitamin D. The link between VDD and SC-MI was 74% greater in men.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that that VDD is linked to SC-MI, particularly in men.
The fine print
Vitamin D levels were only measured once in this study. We do not know if VDD is linked to SC-MI on the long-term. Vitamin D levels can vary during the year. Further studies are needed.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding CVD and vitamin D levels, please consult with your physician.
Published By :
Clinical cardiology
Date :
Sep 21, 2018
