Association of vitamin D deficiency as an independent risk factor for myocardial infarction and its therapeutic implications: a systematic review

Vitamin D deficiency is a highly prevalent condition globally and has emerged as a significant risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). Although its role in the regulation of phospho-calcic metabolism is well established, its involvement in the evolution of myocardial infarction (MI) is yet to be fully understood. Vitamin D deficiency is a manageable condition, and a reasonable time to assess and commence treatment is crucial, as the patient presents with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This article discusses the various mechanisms through which vitamin D may prevent MI, including its role in the development of atherosclerosis, as well as its cardioprotective effects. Cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle have exhibited the presence of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) on the surface. Vitamin D deficiency also plays a crucial role in upregulating inflammatory cytokines and activating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This review aims to explore the implications of vitamin D deficiency on MI by assessing multiple observational studies and randomized controlled trials. The findings suggest a positive correlation between low serum vitamin D levels and the incidence of MI, based on observational studies. Additionally, studies reflect that hypovitaminosis D predisposes AMI patients to post-infarction complications and cardiac remodeling. Contrastingly, the impact of vitamin D supplementation on mitigating the risk of MI is debatable, as evidenced by interventional studies. Future research is thus warranted to showcase the promising approach of vitamin D supplementation in lowering the risk of MI, alongside investigating optimal dosing and evaluating long-term impacts on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Citation

Balasubramanian A, Kunchala K, Shahbaz A, Kar A, Sankar J, Anand S, Attalla M, Hassan M, Mehmood PK, Kunapuli A, Voruganti ST, Siddiqui HF. Association of Vitamin D Deficiency as an Independent Risk Factor for Myocardial Infarction and Its Therapeutic Implications: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2025 Jan 13;17(1):e77375. doi: 10.7759/cureus.77375.

Type

Article