Exploring the Relationship between Vitamin D Deficiency and Osteoporosis in Geriatric Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has been linked to poor bone health outcomes including osteoporosis and fractures. However, limited data exist on the relationship between Vitamin D status, osteoporosis and fracture risk among geriatric CKD patients. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the associations between Vitamin D deficiency, osteoporosis and fractures in this population. Methods: A total of 675 geriatric patients aged 65–75 years with CKD stages 3–5 participated. Data were collected through interviews, medical record reviews and physical assessments. Information obtained included demographics, falls history, Vitamin D levels, diagnoses of Vitamin D deficiency, osteoporosis and fractures. Associations between Vitamin D deficiency and osteoporosis/fractures were examined using the Chi-square tests using the SPSS software version 27. Results: The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency was 42.8%, whereas 30.2% had osteoporosis. A significant association was found between Vitamin D deficiency and osteoporosis (P < 0.001), with 86.3% of those deficient also having osteoporosis. In addition, 79.9% with Vitamin D deficiency experienced fractures after low-impact injuries versus 44.7% without (P < 0.001). While no patients had experienced hip fractures, 7.7% reported falls in the past year. Conclusion: This study demonstrates concerningly high rates of Vitamin D deficiency among geriatric CKD patients, which were significantly associated with both osteoporosis and risk of fractures after minor injuries. The findings emphasise the importance of optimising Vitamin D levels in this population through the supplementation and lifestyle modifications to possibly reduce osteoporosis and fracture burden. Further research is warranted to develop targeted Vitamin D intervention strategies.