The impact of Middle Eastern Origin, HIV, HCV, and HIV/HCV co-infection in the development of hypovitaminosis D in adults

Abstract

Background: A relationship between hypovitaminosis D and infection with HIV and HCV has been established in the scientific literature. Studies comparing these illnesses to other risk factors for development of hypovitaminosis D, such as being of Middle Eastern origin, have been lacking. The goals of this study were: (a) to document vitamin D levels in groups of individuals at high risk of developing its deficiency, (b) analyze the data collected to numerically determine which group had the lowest average vitamin D levels, and (c) discuss the impact of the findings and offer possible explanations. Methods: This retrospective observational study involved reviewing medical charts and documenting recent vitamin D levels. Our subgroups were: (a) individuals infected with HIV, (b) individuals infected with HCV, (c) individuals co-infected with HIV/HCV, and (d) people of Middle Eastern origin. The gathered data was subsequently subjected to statistical analysis. Results: People of Middle Eastern origin were found more likely to be vitamin D deficient as compared to those infected with HIV, HCV, or co-infected with both HIV and HCV. Conclusion: This suggests that genetic and environmental factors unique to otherwise healthy Middle Eastern people are more detrimental, in terms of developing hypovitaminosis D, than being chronically infected with the aforementioned illnesses.