Vitamin D levels inadequate in half of women treated with osteoporosis drugs

A study published in the June 2005 issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism Research has found that many women treated for osteoporosis have low levels of vitamin D, a nutrient necessary for adequate bone mineralization.

The study involved 1,536 postmenopausal women from 61 study sites who had been taking medications for the treatment of osteoporosis for a minimum of three months. Participants were allowed to have used vitamin D supplements as long as the dosage had remained consistent.

Overall, 52% percent of the women had vitamin D levels considered inadequate. Sixty-three percent of women who reported a supplemental intake of 400 IU's or less had inadequate vitamin D levels compared to 45 percent of those whose intake was 400 IU's or greater. Lower levels were also associated with the lack of physician counseling regarding the importance of vitamin D in bone health.

The results of this study emphasize the need for greater education of the public and physicians regarding the significance of vitamin D status in the care of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Long-term vitamin use slows cataract development

A study published in the April 2005 issue of the Archives of Opthalmology found that ten years or more supplementation with vitamin E significantly retarded cataract progression. Two B vitamins, thiamin and riboflavin, also were related to reduced cataract development.

Earlier research conducted by these researchers had revealed a similar protective benefit for vitamin C and omega 3 fatty acids.

The results of these studies provide added support for a relationship between nutrient intake and cataracts. Although questions regarding the role of diet and cataract development still remain unanswered, finding ways to delay age- related cataract formation through diet or supplementation may enhance the quality of life for many older people.

Vitamin D deficiency and hip fracture risk

A new report to be published online in Current Medical Research and Opinion found that in nearly all cases of hip fracture the patients are deficient in vitamin D.

The Scottish study of 548 patients who were admitted to South Glasgow University Hospital in the previous 4 years revealed that over 97 percent had vitamin D levels below normal.

Additionally, the vitamin D levels in 25 percent of the cases were so low they were virtually immeasurable.

The researchers stated that although the study numbers were relatively small, the results demonstrate that vitamin D insufficiency may be a significant risk factor for fractures of the hip.