Vitamin D Supplement on the Fracture Rate

Clinical Study Title:
Effect of four monthly oral vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplementation on fractures and mortality in men and women living in the community: randomised double blind controlled trial.

Plain English Summary:

This study looked at the use of a vitamin D supplement on the fracture rate in older adults. Participants in this study were all over 65, and were taking either a vitamin D supplement or a placebo over the course of 5 years. A total of 2686 people participated in this study. At the end of the study, those participants who were taking vitamin D had fewer fractures, and a lower mortality rate from fracture incidents. This suggests that a supplement of vitamin D can help to protect against fractures and their severity.

Authors:
Trivedi DP. Doll R. Khaw KT.

Institution:
Clinical Gerontology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 2QQ.

Country of Publication:
England

Source:
BMJ. 326(7387):469, 2003 Mar 1.