Influence of Vitamin D on Vascular Function in Adolescents and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

Influence of Vitamin D on Vascular Function in Adolescents and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

The purpose of this study is to study the role of low vitamin D levels on the health of blood vessels or vascular function in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes.

Vitamin D deficiency is known to be common in patients with type 1 diabetes. Studies in adults have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with cardiovascular events such as stroke, myocardial infarction and peripheral arterial disease. However, the impact of this deficiency on vascular health in adolescents with diabetes has not been examined. Furthermore given that endothelial dysfunction is reversible, early detection of this process may have therapeutic and prognostic implications in this population.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, according to Canadian Diabetes Association guidelines
2. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes for at least 2 years
3. Between the ages of 12 and 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Previous organ transplantation
2. Diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia
3. Active smoker
4. Receiving lipid lowering medications
5. Receiving anti hypertensive medication
6. Significant chronic medical illness, including granulomatous disease
7. History of hypertension
8. BMI >95%tile
9. Known renal failure
10. HbA1c greater than 12% on two successive occasions
11. Known peripheral vascular disease
12. Known hypercalcemia