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.