مشخصات پژوهش

The prevalence of vitamin D3 deficiency is high among RA patients, and low calcium intake is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis, which often complicates RA management [6]. Exploring the role of these nutrients is essential because it may help in early identification of patients at higher risk for severe disease progression. Nutritional interventions could complement pharmacological therapies, potentially reducing joint damage and improving quality of life. It provides insight into the immune-modulatory and bone-protective mechanisms that could be targeted in RA treatment. Overall, research in this area has clinical significance for optimizing patient care and developing holistic treatment approaches. The clinical course of RA varies widely among patients. Chronic inflammation leads to joint erosion, functional disability, and increased risk of osteoporosis [7]. Standard treatment includes disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), corticosteroids, and biologics. However, these treatments do not fully prevent joint damage or systemic complications. Vitamin D3 deficiency has been linked to heightened inflammatory activity in RA. Several studies have found that low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels correlate with increased Disease Activity Score (DAS28), higher C-reactive protein (CRP), and more tender and swollen joints [8]. Calcium, in conjunction with vitamin D3, is critical for bone mineral density (BMD), and its deficiency can exacerbate RA-related osteoporosis. The significance of this research lies in elucidating whether vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation can serve as an adjunctive approach to mitigate RA progression, reduce inflammation, and improve overall bone health.