The Association between 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Metabolic Syndrome Components in Bangladeshi Adults.

Abstract

Background: In Bangladesh, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome is increasing day by day, and it is an important cause of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The widespread occurrence of vitamin D deficiency has highlighted its potential role in increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine how vitamin D status influences the components of metabolic syndrome.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 80 adults, with both genders represented, most of whom were from urban, middle-class backgrounds. Clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric data were collected, including serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, lipid profiles, glycemic markers, and measures of insulin resistance. The frequency of metabolic syndrome components was determined using chi-square tests, while Pearson’s correlation was applied to assess associations with vitamin D status.

Results: The frequency of vitamin D deficiency was 92.1%, while only 0.7% of participants had sufficient levels. Increased waist circumference and low HDL cholesterol levels were the most frequently observed metabolic disturbances. A significant association was found between vitamin D deficiency and low HDL cholesterol (p = 0.016), whereas no meaningful associations were observed with high blood glucose, elevated blood pressure, or elevated triglycerides. Additionally, vitamin D levels showed a positive correlation with age (r = 0.274, p = 0.014), indicating slightly higher levels among older participants.

Conclusion: The study found that vitamin D deficiency is more prevalent among overweight and obese adults residing in urban Bangladesh. While vitamin D deficiency was associated with low HDL cholesterol, it did not show a strong association with the other metabolic components.