Comparative Assessment of Serum Vitamin D and Calcium Levels in Hypothyroid Patients in Albayda, Libya

Abstract

Objective  Vitamin D is essential for the proper functioning of numerous organs, including the thyroid gland. For that reason, a deficiency in vitamin D is considered a potential risk factor for developing various thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism. The present study aimed to evaluate the serum concentrations of vitamin D and calcium in individuals who have been diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism.

Methods  The research was conducted on a cohort of 100 hypothyroid patients at the Department of Internal Medicine, Albayda Medical Center, in Albayda, Libya. Serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, and thyroid profiles (thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, and T4) were measured in all participants. A control group consisting of 100 healthy individuals was used for comparison. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 20.0 with independent t-tests and Pearson correlation analysis.

Results Our findings indicate that the serum levels of vitamin D and calcium were significantly lower among the hypothyroid group compared to the control group (12.21 ± 2.02 ng/mL and 4.40 ± 1.24 mg/dL vs 45.53 ± 10.51 ng/mL and 10.88 ± 1.45 mg/dL, p = 0.008 and 0.006, respectively). However, we noticed non-significant differences in changes in the serum levels of vitamin D and calcium between males and females in the hypothyroid group (p = 0.578 and 0.410, respectively). Pearson correlation analysis indicated that the TSH levels of the hypothyroid group had statistically significant negative correlations with the serum vitamin D and calcium levels (r = −0.144, p = 0.030 and r = −0.145, p = 0.029, respectively).

Conclusions Based on these results, it is strongly advised that individuals with hypothyroidism be screened for vitamin D and calcium deficiencies and, if necessary, receive appropriate supplementation.