Evaluation of Arterial Stiffness by Pulse Wave Analysis in Patients with Vitamin D Deficiency
ATG Altok, MB Ozdogar, O OzdemirBackground:
Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is extensively observed worldwide and remains a serious public health issue. Owing to its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions, VD deficiency has been proposed as a possible contributor to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Previous studies have associated low VD levels with early cardiovascular changes, including elevated carotid intima-media thickness, coronary artery calcification (CAC), reduced endothelial function, and increased mortality risk.
Aim:
The present study investigated arterial stiffness using Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) in pediatric patients diagnosed with VD deficiency.
Methods:
Sixty-nine children and adolescents with VD deficiency and without chronic systemic disease were enrolled and compared with 69 age- and sex-matched participants with sufficient VD concentrations. Blood pressure and arterial stiffness indices—including PWV and augmentation index adjusted to 75 bpm (AIx@75)—were measured.
Results:
Participants with VD deficiency showed significantly elevated systolic, diastolic, mean arterial, and pulse pressures compared to controls. Serum VD levels were inversely correlated with PWV, PWV index, and AIx@75.
Conclusion:
VD deficiency was associated with increased arterial stiffness parameters in pediatric populations. These findings indicate a potential relationship rather than causation and suggest early subclinical vascular changes.