Relationship Between Vitamin D level and Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background and objectives: A lack of vitamin D can cause several autoimmune illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis. The link between serum Vitamin D levels and the severity of rheumatoid arthritis is of great interest. This study aims to assess the correlation between disease activity and serum vitamin D levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were recruited from Rheumatology and Rehabilitation department in Sulaymaniyah from January to July 2023. The patient’s medical files and relevant examinations were used to collect the required data. Disease activity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28 based on tender and swollen joints and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Results: Forty-five percent and 18% of the patients had moderate and high disease activities, respectively. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were found in 44% and 36%, respectively. Disease activity was not correlated with vitamin D levels (p=0.271). The patients were 21 to 80 years old. Vitamin D deficiency rose with increasing age, especially in 41-60 and 61-80 age groups (p=0.041). Patients with lower economic status (46%) had a heightened level of disease activity, whereas those with a favorable economic status (6%) demonstrated lower disease activity (p=0.018). Eight percent of the patients were current smokers. A significant correlation was observed between smoking status and disease activity; non-smokers generally moderate, others varying levels (p=0.028). Conclusion: Vitamin D levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients had no significant relation with disease activity.