Vitamin D and Uterine Fibroids: Insights into Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Potential

Abstract Uterine fibroids (UFs) are highly prevalent benign tumors, primarily affecting women of reproductive age. The prevalence of UFs is estimated at 25% to 70% to 80%, with significantly higher rates among African women. Recent investigations have unveiled a link between vitamin D (VD) levels and the presence of UFs. Current data show that individuals with sufficient VD levels are at a reduced risk of developing UFs. This review aims to synthesize the latest discoveries on the involvement of VD in the pathophysiology of UFs, as well as to explore its feasible therapeutic applications. The mechanisms underlying the potential of VD to diminish the risk of UF development and to inhibit their growth are multifaceted and include its antiproliferative effects, the induction of apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis, or the modulation of enzyme activity. The potential of VD and its analogues as promising agents for managing and preventing UFs was demonstrated. However, further research is needed to clarify the biological mechanisms behind the role of VD in UF pathophysiology, and its definitive efficacy has to be confirmed through randomized clinical trials.