S1822 Vitamin A Deficiency in IBD: A Large-Scale Population-Based Analysis

Introduction: Vitamin A, present as preformed retinoids and provitamin A carotenoids, is essential for vision, epithelial integrity, immune regulation, and mucosal maintenance. Although rare in developed nations, vitamin A deficiency (VAD) can arise from malabsorption, hepatic dysfunction, or inadequate intake. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may predispose individuals to VAD through chronic inflammation and impaired nutrient absorption. This study investigates the prevalence and demographic distribution of VAD in IBD patients across a large U.S. population. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX Research Network, comprising over 163 million patient records. A total of 829,248 patients with IBD were identified. We compared the prevalence and incidence of VAD between IBD and non-IBD populations and analyzed demographic trends, including age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Results: In the general population, VAD incidence was 0.015%, with a prevalence of 0.016%. Among IBD patients, the incidence increased to 0.17% and prevalence to 0.183%—representing an over 11-fold increase. Females accounted for 52.68% of IBD cases, and VAD was disproportionately more common among White women patients. Conclusion: The markedly higher burden of VAD in IBD patients highlights a critical intersection between chronic inflammation, malabsorption, and increased micronutrient demands. The observed demographic disparity—particularly among White females—suggests a multifactorial etiology involving genetic, hormonal, and dietary influences. These findings support the incorporation of routine vitamin A screening into IBD management protocols. Early identification and targeted supplementation could mitigate nutritional deficiencies, reduce complications, and optimize clinical outcomes. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms and evaluating the therapeutic impact of vitamin A repletion in this high-risk population.