2014-10-01 11:02:46
Vitamin D levels (measured as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D or 25(OH)D) have been found to be inversely associated with cardiovascular disease risk favors, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes. A recent review study identified evidence of a causal association between 25(OH)D levels and cardiovascular risk [1]. The authors evaluated journal articles. Many randomized controlled trials, prospective and cross-sectional studies found statistically significant inverse associations between vitamin D levels and cardiovascular risk factors. Most studies found these results in various populations, locations, and circumstances. Many studies also looked at the temporal relationship and found the same result. There was also a biological gradient, or a dose-response curve. Several mechanisms could lead from a low vitamin D level to increased risk with mediators, such as cholesterol, blood pressure, or blood sugar problems. The researchers conclude that all relevant Hill criteria for a causal association in a biological system are satisfied to indicate that a low 25(OH)D level is a cardiovascular risk factor.
References
1) Weyland PG, Grant WB, Howie-Esquivel J. Does Sufficient Evidence Exist to Support a Causal Association between Vitamin D Status and Cardiovascular Disease Risk? An Assessment Using Hill’s Criteria for Causality. Nutrients. 2014;6(9):3403-3430.