Long-standing medical practice of prescribing calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent fractures in older adults has been called into question by the findings of a large-scale scientific study. As reported in the journal Science Daily, Canadian researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 69 randomized clinical trials involving nearly 154,000 participants. The results indicated that routine use of these supplements does not provide clinically meaningful protection against falls or fractures, including the most dangerous among them—hip fractures.
Despite the widespread prevalence of such prescriptions, both among physicians and in recommendations for self-administration, the researchers found no significant reduction in overall fracture risk from taking calcium (based on data from over 9,000 participants), vitamin D (more than 92,000 participants), or a combination of both (over 51,000 participants). Similar null outcomes were observed when analyzing the risk of hip fractures as well as the frequency of falls. The authors of the study emphasize that these conclusions remained unchanged even after accounting for key factors such as age, sex, history of prior fractures, and average dietary calcium intake, which further strengthens the reliability and generalizability of the findings.
Based on the collected evidence, the scientists arrived at a clear conclusion: the results “do not support the routine use of calcium, vitamin D, or their combination for the prevention of fractures and falls.” They called on physicians, developers of clinical guidelines, and healthcare regulatory bodies to “reassess current general recommendations for the use of these supplements in light of the available evidence.” This suggests that spending by both patients and public health systems on the widespread prescription of these popular dietary supplements may be ineffective.
In an accompanying editorial commentary published alongside the study, experts proposed an alternative approach. According to their view, limited healthcare resources could be more effectively allocated to methods already proven to be beneficial: regular balance training, strength exercises aimed at strengthening muscles and bones, as well as individualized fall prevention programs. These programs should combine physical activity, assessment of risk factors within the home environment, and patient education on safe movement practices.
Instead of passively taking tablets, older adults are encouraged to adopt an active and comprehensive approach to preserving their health, one that includes lifestyle modifications. The study does not deny the importance of calcium and vitamin D for bone tissue in general but points out that their additional intake beyond what is provided by a normal diet does not deliver the expected benefits.
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