A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY TO EVALUATE THE INTER-RELATIONSHIP OF VITAMIN D AND HYPERTENSION IN SENIOR CITIZENS OF BANGALORE CITY

Dr. Jyothi Vybhavi V.S.

Volume : X, Issue : I, January - 2020

A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY TO EVALUATE THE INTER-RELATIONSHIP OF VITAMIN D AND HYPERTENSION IN SENIOR CITIZENS OF BANGALORE CITY

Dr. Jyothi Vybhavi V. S.

Abstract :

Ageing is a natural process and healthy ageing has become a growing global challenge. The process of ageing affects nutritional needs, they are particularly prone to inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is widely prevalent across all ages, races, geographical regions, and socioeconomic strata. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cardiovascular disease and risk factors including hypertension. The relationship between Vitamin D and Hypertension has varied across studies; hence this study was taken up to evaluate the relationship between hypertension and Vitamin D levels in the senior citizens of Bangalore City. The objective of this study is to assess Serum 25(OH) Vitamin–D, and Blood Pressure in senior citizens of Bangalore city, and to evaluate the interrelationship of the above parameters in the same subjects. As part of the methodology, after obtaining Ethical Clearance, 80 eligible elderly subjects were recruited for the study. Written informed consent was taken. For each subject, fasting blood sample of 4ml was collected for Serum 25(OH) Vitamin–D assessment. Height and weight were measured, and Blood pressure was measured, and Hypertension was diagnosed based on JNC VII criteria. Results were compiled and statistically analyzed. The analysis showed that severe vitamin D deficiency was present in subjects with hypertension than in people without hypertension (P value <0.05). To conclude, this study demonstrates increased rates of hypertension in individuals who tested for lower levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D starting at levels < 20 ng/ml. Elevated Blood Pressure levels associated with Vitamin–D deficiency in the elderly warrants a need for clinical monitoring and appropriate intervention.