ASSOCIATION BETWEEN VITAMIN D AND HIGH SENSITIVITY C-REACTIVE PROTEIN (HS-CRP) IN PATIENTS WITH DYSLIPIDEMIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Several studies have reported an association between decreased vitamin D levels and dyslipidemia. Since high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is an established marker of cardiovascular risk, and atherosclerosis involves both lipid dysregulation and chronic inflammation, a potential link between hs-CRP and lipid metabolism warrants investigation. Understanding this relationship may improve cardiovascular risk stratification. Objectives: To estimate and compare the concentrations of hs-CRP and vitamin D in dyslipidemia patients versus healthy controls, and to assess the correlation between these two parameters. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted involving 40 dyslipidemia patients and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum levels of hs-CRP and 25(OH) vitamin D were measured and statistically compared using t-tests and Pearson’s correlation analysis. Results: Vitamin D levels were significantly lower and hs-CRP levels significantly higher in dyslipidemia patients compared to controls (p < 0.05). A statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between hs-CRP and vitamin D levels among dyslipidemia patients. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that dyslipidemia is associated with lower vitamin D levels and higher hs-CRP, indicating increased inflammation. The inverse correlation supports vitamin D’s role in regulating inflammation. Early assessment of both inflammatory and nutritional markers such as hs-CRP and vitamin D may enhance cardiovascular risk prediction in dyslipidemic patients. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results and assess the benefits of vitamin D supplementation.