Vitamin D Levels Impact Mortality in Older COVID-19 Vaccinated Patients

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at the University of Padua has shed light on the role of vitamin D in regulating the immune system and vaccine response, particularly in older adults. The study, published in BMC Geriatrics, aimed to explore the relationship between vitamin D levels and mortality in older COVID-19 vaccinated patients. The findings suggest that vitamin D levels can significantly impact mortality in this demographic, with those having low vitamin D levels showing a higher risk of mortality compared to those with high vitamin D levels.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study recruited 126 patients aged 65 and over from the Geriatrics Unit of Azienda Ospedale - Universita Padova, with 56% being women and a mean age of 83 years.
  • No significant differences were found in COVID-19 severity among the three groups: unvaccinated, vaccinated with vitamin D levels of 25-50 nmol/L, and vaccinated with levels 50 nmol/L.
  • After 12 months, 24 deaths were recorded: 17% in unvaccinated, 19% in vaccinated with low vitamin D, and 20% in vaccinated with high vitamin D (p = 0.94).
  • Vitamin D levels of 25-50 nmol/L were associated with a threefold increased risk of 12-month mortality (HR: 3.79, p = 0.04).
  • Early correction of vitamin D deficiency could potentially enhance outcomes in older vaccinated individuals.

Statistics:

  • 126 patients were included in the study, representing 56% women and a mean age of 83 years.
  • 24 deaths were recorded after 12 months, with 17% in unvaccinated patients, 19% in vaccinated with low vitamin D, and 20% in vaccinated with high vitamin D (p = 0.94).
  • The risk of 12-month mortality associated with vitamin D levels of 25-50 nmol/L was threefold higher (HR: 3.79, p = 0.04).

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Reports from University of Padua Advance Knowledge in COVID-19 (Impact of vitamin D levels on mortality in older covid-19 vaccinated patients). Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. May 4, 2025; p 192.
  • Impact of vitamin D levels on mortality in older covid-19 vaccinated patients. BMC Geriatrics, 2025,25(1):1-8. (BMC Geriatrics - http://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com).