OBJECTIVES

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is characterised by nutritional deficiencies and oxidative stress. Vitamin D possesses antioxidant properties; however, its role in SCA within sub-Saharan Africa remains inadequately understood. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin D status, oxidative stress and antioxidant levels in children with SCA, exploring its possible role in mitigating complications associated with oxidative stress in SCA.

METHODS

This study was conducted for a period of 9 months from November 2022 until July 2023 at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, Nigeria. This case-control study involved 100 HbS genotype and 100 HbA genotype children (control group), all of whom were of comparable age (5-12 years). Baseline characteristics were collected, and serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, CAT, SOD, GPX, GST and XO were quantified using standard laboratory methods.

RESULTS

Serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, CAT, SOD, GPX and GST were significantly lower in the SCA group compared to the control group. Conversely, the XO level was significantly higher in the HbS group than in the control group. A positive correlation was observed between vitamin D, CAT and SOD (r = 0.821, 0.869), a weak positive association was found between vitamin D and Calcium (r = 0.545), and no significant relationship was identified between vitamin D and the other measured variables in the SCA group.

CONCLUSIONS

Sufficient vitamin D levels may positively influence the antioxidant status in SCA individuals, thereby reducing associated complications.