Asthma: Low Vitamin D May Worsen the Condition

Asthmatics with vitamin D deficiency have a 25% higher likelihood of experiencing acute respiratory attacks. Screening for vitamin D levels and restoring normal amounts, including through supplements, could represent a simple strategy to manage asthma attacks and improve quality of life.

This is suggested by a study conducted by Dr. Ronit Confino-Cohen and colleagues from Tel Aviv University (Israel). The new research, published in the journal Allergy, aimed to confirm the link between vitamin D and asthma.

Asthma: a Common Chronic Disease

Asthma is one of the most widespread respiratory diseases globally and has been increasing over the last 30 years. It manifests as chronic airway inflammation causing recurrent asthma attacks. Many factors contribute to its development, including obesity and sedentary lifestyle. Some studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may increase asthma risk.

Vitamin D has strong immunomodulatory effects and can be obtained through foods like fish, eggs, milk, and cod liver oil. Sun exposure also significantly contributes to its production. Most existing data on vitamin D and asthma link come from pediatric populations. This study involved a large group of young adults without other diseases.

Additional Evidence of the Vitamin D–Asthma Relationship

The study analyzed data from millions of Israeli individuals aged 22 to 50 collected between July 2008 and July 2012. Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, a precursor of vitamin D, were assessed in 307,900 people, accounting for asthma risk factors such as obesity, smoking, and other chronic diseases. Among 21,000 asthma patients identified, those deficient in vitamin D had 25% more recent asthma attacks compared to other asthmatics.

Increasing Vitamin D Levels Could Help Manage Asthma Attacks

The findings suggest a beneficial role of vitamin D in reducing asthma exacerbations, although further studies are needed to support this hypothesis. The researchers emphasize the usefulness of screening vitamin D levels in patients with recurrent asthma attacks and considering supplementation when necessary. Dermatologists also recommend obtaining vitamin D from foods rather than excessive sun exposure.

Source: R. Confino-Cohen, I. Brufman, A. Goldberg and B. S. Feldman. “Vitamin D, asthma prevalence and asthma exacerbations: a large adult population-based study.” Allergy. Volume 69, Issue 12, pages 1673–1680, December 2014. DOI: 10.1111/all.12508