Hypovitaminosis D in Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Associated Factors in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Hypovitaminosis D is considerably prevalent among individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), with vascular complications and delayed wound healing. This study aims to assess the pattern of this of hydroxyvitamin D levels and associated factors among diabetics and diabetics with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) in Southern Nigeria. Methods: The study population comprised 176 individuals (88 individuals diagnosed with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and 88 individuals diagnosed with T2DM but not having DFU. Hydroxyvitamin D levels were assessed using blood samples according to standard ELISA methods. Results:  There was a total of 176 participants. About 76 (43.2%) of all study participants (persons with and without DFU) had sufficient Vitamin D levels and 69 (39.2%) of all study participants had deficient Vitamin D levels, and 31 (17.6%) had insufficient vitamin D levels. Individuals aged 50 years and above exhibited a notably higher likelihood of the condition compared to their younger counterparts, with a crude Odds Ratio (O.R.) of 7.7 (95% C.I: 3.6 – 16.4). After adjusting for other factors, this association remained significant, although the strength of the association decreased, with an adjusted O.R. of 2.2 (95% C.I: 1.1 – 4.6), suggesting age as a significant predictor. Conclusion: The study reveals strong links between demographic/biochemical factors and insufficient hydroxyvitamin D levels. People aged more than 50 years are more prone to deficiency, even when other factors are considered. While abnormal waist-to-hip ratios initially reduce risk, this effect weakens with adjustment, suggesting other influences. Abnormal albumin levels remain a significant predictor, emphasizing the necessity of targeted interventions in high-risk groups.