THE IMPACT OF VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY ON CHRONIC DISEASES: A CLINICAL ANALYSIS
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Keywords: vitamin D deficiency, chronic disease, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, inflammation, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, metabolic syndrome.Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency has become a global health concern, with emerging evidence highlighting its significant role in the pathophysiology of various chronic diseases beyond bone metabolism. This clinical analysis aims to synthesize current evidence on the association between vitamin D deficiency and major chronic conditions. A review of literature from 2015 to 2024 was conducted using academic databases, focusing on meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and large observational studies. The analysis reveals a strong correlation between low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and increased incidence, severity, and poor prognosis of cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, atherosclerosis), autoimmune disorders (multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis), metabolic conditions (type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome), and certain cancers. The proposed mechanisms include vitamin D's role in regulating immune function, controlling inflammatory pathways, modulating cell proliferation, and influencing renin-angiotensin system activity. The findings underscore the importance of routine screening for vitamin D deficiency in high-risk populations and the potential benefits of maintaining optimal vitamin D status as part of a comprehensive strategy for the prevention and management of chronic diseases.