A Pooled Analysis of Vitamin D Dose Requirements for Fracture Prevention

This study of pooled data from trials of oral vitamin D supplementation examined the incidence of hip and nonvertebral fractures in persons 65 years of age or older. The data suggest that high-dose vitamin D may help prevent hip and nonvertebral fractures. Approximately 75% of fractures occur in people 65 years of age or older. 1 By 2050, the worldwide incidence of hip fractures is expected to increase by 240% among women and 310% among men. 2 One strategy to prevent fractures in this population might be universal vitamin D supplementation. However, the results of several study level meta-analyses and one pooled participant-level analysis do not agree. Although one trial-level meta-analysis of double-blind, randomized, controlled trials suggested an 18% reduction in the incidence of hip fracture and a 20% reduction in the incidence of any nonvertebral fracture at a received dose of no less . . .