Vitamin D status in Egyptian children with type 1 diabetes and the role of vitamin D replacement in glycemic control

Abstract

AbstractBackground:The association of low serum 25 hydroxy cholecalciferol (25OHD) levels with high glucose level and diminished insulin sensitivity suggests that vitamin D (VD) may modulate insulin metabolism. The aim of the study was to screen for vitamin D deficiency (VDD) in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and study the effect of VD supplementation on their glycemic control and insulin requirements.Methods:A prospective cohort study including 50 patients with T1D. VD level was assessed initially and after 3 months of VD supplementation (in those with VDD). HbAResults:Fifty patients with T1D were included with mean diabetes duration of 4.11±2.34 years. VD level ranged from 0.2 to 33 ng/mL. VD status correlated significantly with daily insulin dose (p=0.030, r=0.306) and HbAConclusions:VD was highly prevalent in Egyptian T1D patients. VD supplementation improved glycemic control at 3 months after therapy with no reduction in insulin requirements.