Case study: the lower the vitamin D level, the higher the risk of COVID 19 death
A case study by Indonesian researchers at RSUD Kabupaten Sukamara Clinic, Kec. Sukamara, Kabupaten Sukamara and Kalimantan Tengah examined the data and courses of a total of 780 COVID-19 sufferers who had to be treated in a clinic due to a severe course of the disease. In addition to other factors, they also analyzed the vitamin D level of the hospitalized patients. It was found that a low vitamin D level was associated with a higher risk of death in the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Researchers around the world are focusing on existing therapeutics
Scientists worldwide are looking for effective treatment methods to curb the pandemic of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease COVID-19. No effective vaccination has been found so far. All over the world, drugs are being sought that could alleviate the course of the disease. Research focuses primarily on existing therapeutic agents.
Case study examined 780 COVID-19 clinic patients
In their case study, medical professionals in Indonesia also examined the question of whether a low vitamin D level could be associated with increased mortality. They examined the patient data from 780 COVID-19 patients who were treated in four clinics.
In the study, the researchers recorded various aspects such as age, gender, previous illnesses, vitamin D status and the course of the disease in the hospitalized COVID-19 patients. “The goal was to determine mortality patterns and related factors,” the researchers write. The patient’s vitamin D status was, however, in the foreground.
The lower the vitamin D level, the higher the risk of death
After evaluating the data, the researchers were able to observe that, in particular, male patients who had pre-existing diseases and were older had an increased risk of dying in general. About half (49.7%) of the cases showed a normal vitamin D status and only 4 percent of these patients died. Just over a quarter (27%) had insufficient vitamin D levels and most of them (88%) died. Just under a quarter (23%) had a medical vitamin D deficiency and almost all (99%) died. The researchers named a value of over 30 ng / ml as the standard for a “normal” vitamin level.
Further studies necessary
“With increasing age, previous illnesses and male gender, the risk of death is strongly associated with a low vitamin D level,” the researchers conclude. However, further studies are needed to investigate whether vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 actually reduces the risk of death. In addition, the underlying mechanisms would have to be examined closely.
Read also: Vitamin D deficiency – causes, symptoms and treatment.
Sources:
- Prabowo Raharusuna, Sadiah Priambada, Cahni Budiarti, Erdie Agung, Cipta Budi: Patterns of COVID-19 Mortality and Vitamin D: An Indonesian Study, SSRN
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Important NOTE:
This article contains general information only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
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