Association of Vitamin D Levels with Asthma Control among Pediatric Patients in Wadi Al-Shatti, Libya

Abstract

Background: Asthma is the most common chronic inflammatory respiratory diseas in children. It has significant impact on morbidity and reduced quality of life worldwide. While recent research has highlighted the potential of vitamin D as an immunomodulator in asthma pathophysiology and control, the evidence remains controversial. Furthermore, data regarding this relationship in North African populations, particularly in Libya, are notably limited. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin D status and asthma control among asthmatic children and adolescents in Wadi Al-Shatti region, southern Libya. It further sought to assess serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and their associated factors, as well as exploring  the correlation of the targeted cases with immunological responses and key biochemical indicators. Methods: A total of 50 children aged 1–15 years were enrolled in this observational study. Participants were identified and recruited from Brack General Hospital and Qaqam General Hospital. Data collection was performed in two intervals: January–March 2023 and December 2023–March 2024. Asthma control was assessed according to the GINA guidelines and the Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT). Laboratory investigations included serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, total immunoglobulin E, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, and complete blood count. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05 using SPSS version 26. Results: Among the 50 participating children, the majority of participants were males (64%), compared to   female (36%), of whom 80% presented with uncontrolled asthma. Vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent, with the majority of targeted individuals exhibiting serum levels below 20 ng/ml. A significant correlation was found between vitamin D levels and asthma control, with lower levels more frequently identified in children with uncontrolled disease. Furthermore, significant associations were identified between vitamin D levels and serum IgE concentrations, as well as serum phosphorus levels. Additionally, red blood cell counts showed a significant association with vitamin D status, whereas calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels remained non-significant. Conclusion: Children with poor asthma control have a high incidence of vitamin D deficiency. These findings suggest that vitamin D status may represent an important modifiable factor influencing asthma outcomes in paediatric populations.