Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in Scottish adults with non-vertebral fragility fractures

ABSTRACT

Background: It is well established that vitamin D levels are sub-optimal in the elderly and that adults with fragility fracture are more likely to have serum vitamin D levels either lower than those of control patients of similar age, or below the normal range.

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in an elderly population presenting to the South Glasgow Fracture Liaison Service with non-vertebral fragility fractures in order to assess the extent of the problem.

Research design and methods: The retrospective arm of this study used data from an established database to identify patients aged over 50 years admitted to South Glasgow University Hospitals over the previous 4 years with hip fracture. The prospective arm identified the first 50 patients aged over 50 presenting with a clinical non-vertebral fragility fracture with osteoporosis as measured by axial spine and/or hip DEXA (T‐score < –2.5) after November 2004.

Results: In the retrospective arm, 626 patients were identified from the database: mean age 80.5 years; 94% were aged over 60 and 74% were aged over 75. Data analysis was limited to 548 patients aged over 60 years with vitamin D recordings and not receiving supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. The mean vitamin D level was 24.7?nmol/L (9.9?ng/ml) SD = 17, however, it is likely that the true mean is lower since in approximately 25% of cases vitamin D levels were reported as < 15?nmol/L (effectively unrecordable). These were transcribed as 15?nmol/L in order to permit a numerical value to be calculated. In the absence of an agreement on what should constitute a diagnostic serum level of vitamin D inadequacy, a number of thresholds were considered – 97.8% had vitamin D levels below 70?nmol/L and 91.6% had vitamin D levels below 50?nmol/L. There were no significant differences by patient sex, age or season of presentation.

The mean age of patients in the prospective arm was 65.8 years (range 50.6–83.8), 72% were aged over 60 and 16% were aged over 75. The mean vitamin D level was 44.1?nmol/L (18.4?ng/ml) SD = 25.3; 82% had vitamin D levels below 70?nmol/L and 72% had vitamin D levels below 50?nmol/L. Although numbers were too small to justify extensive subgroup analyses, the mean vitamin D level in the 13 patients with hip fracture (34.5?nmol/L) was lower than in the 37 with non-hip fractures (48.2?nmol/L).

Conclusions: This study confirms almost universal vitamin D inadequacy among 548 elderly patients admitted to hospital with hip fracture, regardless of whether a threshold of 50?nmol/L or 70?nmol/L was used. However, among a prospective subset of 50 patients with clinical fragility fractures, especially those with non-hip fractures, the prevalence of inadequacy was substantially lower. It may be that vitamin D represents a correctable risk factor for fragility fracture in the elderly, possibly specifically for the hip.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in Belfast following fragility fracture

BACKGROUND: It is well established that vitamin D levels are sub-optimal in older people and that adults with fragility fracture have low levels of serum vitamin D. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in an elderly population with fragility fractures and to compare data with previously published work from Glasgow. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Two retrospective patient audits were carried out using records from the out-patient Osteoporosis Clinic at Musgrave Park Hospital and from in-patient hip fracture admissions at the Royal Victoria Hospital. RESULTS: There were data for 86 patients with fragility fracture from the Osteoporosis Clinic, 40.7% patients had vertebral fractures and 10.5% multiple fractures. Patients with hip fracture were excluded from the analysis. 69.8% of the patients were women. The mean age at the time of fracture was 65.3 years and 70.9% of patients were aged 60 years or over and 32.6% were aged 75 years or over. At the time of out-patient attendance, 73.3% were receiving supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. The mean vitamin D level was 52.3 nmol/L (21.0 ng/mL), SD = 23.4 (9.4). There were 83.7% of patients who had a vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 73.3% < 70 nmol/L and 55.8% < 50 nmol/L.There were no significant differences by patient age or sex. Data were also analysed according to supplementation status, in patients not taking supplements (n = 23) mean vitamin D level was 48.1 nmol/L (19.3 ng/mL), SD = 27.4 (11.0) compared with 53.8 nmol/L (21.6 ng/mL), SD = 21.8 (8.7) in the 63 patients taking supplements. Prevalence of inadequacy was higher in the patients not taking supplements 82.6% versus 67.1% at the 70 nmol/L threshold. There were data for 43 hip fracture patients, 95.3% of the patients were women. The mean age at the time of fracture was 78.3 years, 95.3% of patients were aged 60 years or over and 69.8% were aged 75 years or over. Data were not available on whether these patients were receiving supplementation. The mean vitamin D level was 36.1 nmol/L (14.5 ng/mL), SD = 24.8 (9.9). 90.7% of patients had a vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 88.4% < 70 nmol/L ( approximately 28 ng/mL) and 88.4% < 50 nmol/L ( approximately 20 ng/mL). CONCLUSIONS: The levels of vitamin D inadequacy revealed in this audit were similar to those in an earlier audit carried out in Glasgow. Thus studies at two locations in the UK confirm the high prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy, furthermore, the prevalence of inadequacy appears to be higher in those patients with a hip fracture.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in osteoporotic hip fracture patients in London

BACKGROUND: It is well established that vitamin D levels are suboptimal in the elderly and that adults with fragility fracture are more likely to have serum vitamin D levels either lower than those of control patients of similar age, or below the normal range. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in an elderly population with hip fractures from London (UK) and compare levels with data previously presented from Glasgow (UK). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A retrospective patient audit was carried out over a 17-month period (September 2003-January 2005). Patient records were searched for hip fracture admissions and cross matched with vitamin D analysis carried out within 3 days of the hip fracture admission. The resulting records were hand searched to exclude patients with a hip fracture resulting from high impact/trauma. RESULTS: There were data for 103 hip fracture patients, 79.6% of the patients were women (n = 82). The mean age at the time of fracture was 73.4 years, 100% were aged 60 years or over and 41% were aged 75 years or over. Around 20% of the patients were receiving supplementation with calcium and/or vitamin D and were not excluded from the analysis. The mean vitamin D level was 32.1 nmol/L (12.9 ng/mL), SD = 19.4 (7.8), however, it is likely that the true mean is lower since in approximately 15% of cases vitamin D levels were reported as < 12.5 nmol/L, but were transcribed at 12.5 nmol/L in order to allow a numerical value to be calculated. Ninety-nine per cent of patients had a vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 94.2% < 70 nmol/L and 81.6% < 50 nmol/L. There were no significant differences by patient age or sex, however, there were significant seasonal differences in vitamin D. In the year from September 2003 to August 2004, 82.8% of summer admissions had vitamin D levels < 70 nmol/L compared with 98.0% in winter (p = 0.04). Mean vitamin D levels in the 30 patients with parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels above the reference range were significantly lower than levels in the 71 patients within the range: mean 19.9 nmol/L, SD = 16.2 versus mean 37.5 nmol/L, SD = 18.5 (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, 50% of the patients with PTH levels above the reference range had vitamin D levels < 12.5 nmol/L, reflecting extremely low levels of vitamin D. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms almost universal vitamin D inadequacy among 103 patients admitted to hospital with hip fracture in London, although the prevalence of inadequacy is slightly lower than that seen in a similar study carried out in Glasgow.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in patients attending a metabolic bone clinic in Medway

BACKGROUND: It is well established that vitamin D levels are sub-optimal in the elderly and that adults with fragility fracture have low levels of serum vitamin D. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in Medway, Kent in patients attending a metabolic bone clinic and in patients with fragility fractures and to compare levels with data previously presented from Glasgow. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Retrospective patient records audit of patients attending the metabolic bone clinic from 1998 to 2005. RESULTS: There were data for 870 patients, 77.5% of the patients were women (n = 674) and 48.2% (n = 420) of patients had a fragility fracture. The mean age was 61.6 years (SD = 14.12), 56.4% were aged 60 years or over and 17.7% were aged 75 years or over. The mean vitamin D level was 47.7 nmol/L (19.1 ng/mL), SD = 25.8 (10.3). Of the patients 88.7% had a vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 81.4% < 70 nmol/L and 59.1% < 50 nmol/L.Of the 420 patients with fragility fracture, 78.1% were women and the mean age was 66.6 years (SD = 12.22). The mean vitamin D level was 45.3 nmol/L (18.1 ng/mL), SD = 25.8 (10.3). In patients not receiving supplementation (n = 222) the mean vitamin D level was 40.5 nmol/L (16.2 ng/mL), SD = 20.9 (8.4) and 95.9% of patients had a vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 89.6% < 70 nmol/L and 71.2% < 50 nmol/L.In order to compare data from Medway with previously published data from Glasgow, a subset of 198 patients with fragility fracture, aged over 50 years, attending the metabolic bone clinic and not receiving supplementation with calcium and/or vitamin D was analysed. There were 76.6% women and the mean age was 68.6 years (SD = 9.1). The mean vitamin D level was 40.0 nmol/L (16.0 ng/mL), SD = 21.5 (8.6). Of these patients 96.4% had a vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 89.7% < 70 nmol/L and 73.2% < 50 nmol/L.Data on the month of vitamin D assessment were available for 499 patients. The mean vitamin D in the summer (April-September) months (n = 217) was significantly higher than in the winter (October-March) months (n = 281): 53.2 nmol/L (SD = 29.4) versus 47.3 (SD = 24.9), p = 0.02. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were available for 289 patients. Mean vitamin D levels in the 47 patients with PTH levels above the reference range were significantly lower than vitamin D levels in the 238 patients within the reference range for PTH: mean 31.1 nmol/L, SD = 21.1 versus mean 46.5 nmol/L, SD = 24.8 (p = 0.000092). Four patients had PTH levels below the reference range. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy is high in patients attending a metabolic bone clinic, in particular in those patients with fragility fractures. The prevalence of inadequacy is comparable with that seen in Glasgow.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in osteoporotic hip fracture patients in London

ABSTRACT

Background: It is well established that vitamin D levels are sub-optimal in the elderly and that adults with fragility fracture are more likely to have serum vitamin D levels either lower than those of control patients of similar age,?or below the normal range.

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in an elderly population with hip fractures from London (UK) and compare levels with data previously presented from Glasgow (UK).

Research design and methods: A retrospective patient audit was carried out over a 17‐month period (September 2003–January 2005). Patient records were searched for hip fracture admissions and cross matched with vitamin D analysis carried out within 3 days of the hip fracture admission. The resulting records were hand searched to exclude patients with a hip fracture resulting from high impact/trauma.

Results: There were data for 103 hip fracture patients, 79.6% of the patients were women (n = 82). The mean age at the time of fracture was 73.4 years, 100% were aged 60 years or over and 41% were aged 75 years or over. Around 20% of the patients were receiving supplementation with calcium and/or vitamin D and were not excluded from the analysis. The mean vitamin D level was 32.1?nmol/L (12.9?ng/mL), SD = 19.4 (7.8), however, it is likely that the true mean is lower since in approximately 15% of cases vitamin D levels were reported as < 12.5?nmol/L, but were transcribed at 12.5?nmol/L in order to allow a numerical value to be calculated. Ninety-nine per cent of patients had a vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L, 94.2% < 70?nmol/L and 81.6% < 50?nmol/L.

There were no significant differences by patient age or sex, however, there were significant seasonal differences in vitamin D. In the year from September 2003 to August 2004, 82.8% of summer admissions had vitamin D levels < 70?nmol/L compared with 98.0% in winter (?p = 0.04). Mean vitamin D levels in the 30 patients with parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels above the reference range were significantly lower than levels in the 71 patients within the range: mean 19.9?nmol/L, SD = 16.2 versus mean 37.5?nmol/L, SD = 18.5 (?p < 0.0001). Furthermore, 50% of the patients with PTH levels above the reference range had vitamin D levels < 12.5?nmol/L, reflecting extremely low levels of vitamin D.

Conclusions: This study confirms almost universal vitamin D inadequacy among 103 patients admitted to hospital with hip fracture in London, although the prevalence of inadequacy is slightly lower than that seen in a similar study carried out in Glasgow.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in patients attending a metabolic bone clinic in Medway

ABSTRACT

Background: It is well established that vitamin D levels are sub-optimal in the elderly and that adults with fragility fracture have low levels of serum vitamin D.

Objectives:?To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in Medway, Kent in patients attending a metabolic bone clinic and in patients with fragility fractures and to compare levels with data previously presented from Glasgow.

Research design and methods:?Retrospective patient records audit of patients attending the metabolic bone clinic from 1998 to 2005.

Results:?There were data for 870 patients, 77.5% of the patients were women (n = 674) and 48.2% (n = 420) of patients had a fragility fracture. The mean age was 61.6 years (SD = 14.12), 56.4% were aged 60 years or over and 17.7% were aged 75 years or over. The mean vitamin D level was 47.7?nmol/L (19.1?ng/mL), SD = 25.8 (10.3). Of the patients 88.7% had a vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L, 81.4% < 70?nmol/L and 59.1% < 50?nmol/L.

Of the 420 patients with fragility fracture, 78.1% were women and the mean age was 66.6 years (SD = 12.22). The mean vitamin D level was 45.3?nmol/L (18.1?ng/mL), SD = 25.8 (10.3). In patients not receiving supplementation (n = 222) the mean vitamin D level was 40.5?nmol/L (16.2?ng/mL), SD = 20.9 (8.4) and 95.9% of patients had a vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L, 89.6% < 70?nmol/L and 71.2% < 50?nmol/L.

In order to compare data from Medway with previously published data from Glasgow, a subset of 198 patients with fragility fracture, aged over 50 years, attending the metabolic bone clinic and not receiving supplementation with calcium and/or vitamin D was analysed. There were 76.6% women and the mean age was 68.6 years (SD = 9.1). The mean vitamin D level was 40.0?nmol/L (16.0?ng/mL), SD = 21.5 (8.6). Of these patients 96.4% had a vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L,89.7% < 70?nmol/L and 73.2% < 50?nmol/L.

Data on the month of vitamin D assessment were available for 499 patients. The mean vitamin D in the summer (April–September) months (n = 217) was significantly higher than in the winter (October–March) months (n = 281): 53.2?nmol/L (SD = 29.4) versus 47.3 (SD = 24.9), p = 0.02.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels were available for 289 patients. Mean vitamin D levels in the 47 patients with PTH levels above the reference range were significantly lower than vitamin D levels in the 238 patients within the reference range for PTH: mean 31.1?nmol/L, SD = 21.1 versus mean 46.5?nmol/L, SD = 24.8 (?p = 0.000092). Four patients had PTH levels below the reference range.

Conclusions:?The prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy is high in patients attending a metabolic bone clinic, in particular in those patients with fragility fractures. The prevalence of inadequacy is comparable with that seen in Glasgow.     

An overview of the prevalence of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy amongst elderly patients with or without fragility fracture in the United Kingdom

BACKGROUND: Many studies have investigated the prevalence of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy throughout the world and found a high prevalence of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy in older patients, particularly those with fragility fracture. SCOPE: To review the findings from vitamin D audits from six units across the UK and compare with previously published data from around the world. Results from four units have been previously published (Belfast, Glasgow, London and Medway) and this paper presents new data from Southampton and Carshalton, and further sub-analysis of the data from Medway. FINDINGS: Three audits of patients attending metabolic bone clinics (Carshalton, Medway and Southampton) identified 954 patients, of which overall 49% had a prior fragility fracture. Mean 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels ranged from 47.7 nmol/L to 62.4 nmol/L. Of these patients 72.9-88.9% had a 25-hydroxy-vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 68.8-83.3% < 70 nmol/L and 37.5-59.1% < 50 nmol/L. The mean age of patients ranged from 60.0 to 67.5 years. Sub-analysis of the data by fracture status revealed that patients with fracture had lower mean levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D compared with patients without fracture. This was statistically significant in the sub-analysis of the Medway data (45.3 nmol/L versus 49.9 nmol/L, p < 0.005).Three audits identified 330 patients with fragility fracture. Audits from Glasgow and Belfast specifically identified patients with fragility fracture. A subgroup of patients with fracture aged over 50 years from the Medway audit was also included in this group. Mean levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D ranged from 40.0 nmol/L to 52.3 nmol/L. 83.7-96.4% of patients had a 25-hydroxy-vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 73.3-89.7% < 70 nmol/L and 55.8-73.2% < 50 nmol/L. The mean age of patients ranged from 65.3 to 68.6 years.The audits carried out in Belfast and Medway were also divided by supplementation status. Mean 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels were 48.1 nmol/L in Belfast and 40.5 nmol/L in Medway in the patients not receiving supplements and 53.8 nmol/L and 59.9 nmol/L, respectively in the patients receiving supplements. The difference was statistically significant in the Medway audit (p < 0.0001), but not in the smaller Belfast audit (p = 0.216). As would be expected, the prevalence of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy was higher in the patients not receiving supplements, for example at the 70 nmol/L threshold: 82.6% versus 67.1% in Belfast and 89.6% versus 72.7% in Medway.Three audits specifically identified 694 patients with hip fracture (Belfast, Glasgow and London). Mean levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D ranged from 24.7 nmol/L to 36.1 nmol/L. Of these patients 90.7-99.0% had a 25-hydroxy-vitamin D level < 80 nmol/L, 88.4-98.0% < 70 nmol/L and 81.6-92.7% < 50 nmol/L. The mean age of patients ranged from 73.4 to 80.5 years. CONCLUSION: Inadequate 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels are extremely common in the elderly and particularly so in patients with fragility fracture - specifically in those with hip fracture. Although the differing audit specifications and assay techniques used make direct comparisons difficult, the data do provide a snapshot of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D status across the UK and are consistent with those previously observed elsewhere in Europe and the rest of the world.     

An overview of the prevalence of 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy amongst elderly patients with or without fragility fracture in the United Kingdom

ABSTRACT

Background: Many studies have investigated the prevalence of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy throughout the world and found a high prevalence of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy in older patients, particularly those with fragility fracture.

Scope: To review the findings from vitamin D audits from six units across the UK and compare with previously published data from around the world. Results from four units have been previously published (Belfast, Glasgow, London and Medway) and this paper presents new data from Southampton and Carshalton, and further sub-analysis of the data from Medway.

Findings: Three audits of patients attending metabolic bone clinics (Carshalton, Medway and Southampton) identified 954 patients, of which overall 49% had a prior fragility fracture. Mean 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D levels ranged from 47.7?nmol/L to 62.4?nmol/L. Of these patients 72.9–88.9% had a 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L, 68.8–83.3% < 70?nmol/L and 37.5–59.1% < 50?nmol/L. The mean age of patients ranged from 60.0 to 67.5 years. Sub-analysis of the data by fracture status revealed that patients with fracture had lower mean levels of 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D compared with patients without fracture. This was statistically significant in the sub-analysis of the Medway data (45.3?nmol/L versus 49.9?nmol/L, p < 0.005).

Three audits identified 330 patients with fragility fracture. Audits from Glasgow and Belfast specifically identified patients with fragility fracture. A subgroup of patients with fracture aged over 50 years from the Medway audit was also included in this group. Mean levels of 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D ranged from 40.0?nmol/L to 52.3?nmol/L. 83.7–96.4% of patients had a 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L, 73.3–89.7% < 70?nmol/L and 55.8–73.2% < 50?nmol/L. The mean age of patients ranged from 65.3 to 68.6 years.

The audits carried out in Belfast and Medway were also divided by supplementation status. Mean 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D levels were 48.1?nmol/L in Belfast and 40.5?nmol/L in Medway in the patients not receiving supplements and 53.8?nmol/L and 59.9?nmol/L, respectively in the patients receiving supplements. The difference was statistically significant in the Medway audit (?p < 0.0001), but not in the smaller Belfast audit (?p = 0.216). As would be expected, the prevalence of 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D inadequacy was higher in the patients not receiving supplements, for example at the 70?nmol/L threshold: 82.6% versus 67.1% in Belfast and 89.6% versus 72.7% in Medway.

Three audits specifically identified 694 patients with hip fracture (Belfast, Glasgow and London). Mean levels of 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D ranged from 24.7?nmol/L to 36.1?nmol/L. Of these patients 90.7–99.0% had a 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D level < 80?nmol/L, 88.4–98.0% < 70?nmol/L and 81.6–92.7% < 50?nmol/L. The mean age of patients ranged from 73.4 to 80.5 years.

Conclusion: Inadequate 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D levels are extremely common in the elderly and particularly so in patients with fragility fracture – specifically in those with hip fracture. Although the differing audit specifications and assay techniques used make direct comparisons difficult, the data do provide a snapshot of 25‐hydroxy-vitamin D status across the UK and are consistent with those previously observed elsewhere in Europe and the rest of the world.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in European postmenopausal women

ABSTRACT

Objective: Inadequate vitamin D level is associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism and increased bone turnover and bone loss, which in turn increases fracture risk. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of inadequate serum vitamin D levels in postmenopausal European women. There are no clear international agreements on what constitutes a level of vitamin D inadequacy, but recent publications suggest that the circulating level of vitamin D should be over 80?nmol/L or at least between 50 and 80?nmol/L.

Material and methods: Assessment of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was performed in 8532 European postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or osteopenia. European countries included France, Belgium, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Hungary, United Kingdom, Spain and Germany. Two cut-offs of 25(OH)D inadequacy were fixed : < 80?nmol/L and < 50?nmol/L.

Results: Mean (SD) age of the patients was 74.2 (7.1) years, body mass index was 25.7 (4.1)?kg/m². Level of 25(OH)D was 61.0 (27.2)?nmol/L. There was a highly significant difference of 25(OH)D level across European countries (?p < 0.0001). The lowest level of 25(OH)D was found in France [51.5 (26.1)?nmol/L] and the highest in Spain [85.2 (33.3)?nmol/L]. In the whole study population, the prevalence of 25(OH)D inadequacy was 79.6% and 32.1% when considering cut-offs of 80 and 50?nmol/L, respectively and when considering patients aged less than 65 years, the prevalence reached 86% (cut-off of 80?nmol/L) and 45% (cut-off of 50?nmol/L).

Conclusion: This study indicates a high prevalence of vitamin D [25(OH)D] inadequacy in European postmeno­pausal women. The prevalence could be even higher in some particular countries. A greater awareness of the importance of vitamin D inadequacy is needed to address this public health problem.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in a minimal trauma fracture population

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this analysis was to report the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in a population of adults with minimal trauma fractures. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: 82 adults (ages 52-97 with 63% age 80+) consecutively hospitalized with hip and extremity fractures between August 2001 and January 2002 were recruited from two St. Paul, MN hospitals. Patients came from independent living and assisted living facilities. Demographics, medical history and vitamin D supplementation were obtained by the medical record and self-report. Blood specimens were collected during hospitalization within 48 hours of admission. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations were assessed using Diasorin 25-hydroxyvitamin D radioimmunoassay kit (RIA) at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. Results were available for 78 patients and are included in the current analysis. RESULTS: Patients were 99% Caucasian, 63% >/=80 years and 78% female. 97% were admitted due to hip fracture. On admission, 50% reported using at least 400 IU per day of vitamin D through supplements (including multivitamins) and 13% of all patients were taking osteoporosis medication (3 estrogen, 5 alendronate, 1 etidronate, 1 raloxifene). The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 14.2 (SD 6.6) with a range of 5-39 ng/mL (8-38 ng/mL wintertime vales in Rochester, MN). All but two of the 78 patients (97.4%) had 25(OH)D concentrations < 30 ng/mL and the majority (81%) of the patients had 25(OH)D concentrations < 20 ng/mL, including 21% < 9 ng/mL. Mean 25(OH)D concentrations were not substantially different by gender, age, or osteoporosis medication use. Patients who reported vitamin D supplementation >/= 400 IU/day had significantly greater mean 25(OH)D concentrations, albeit suboptimal, compared to those who did not (16.4 vs. 13.7 ng/mL; p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: Nearly all patients in this study hospitalized for fracture had vitamin D inadequacy. Significant opportunity exists to ensure adequate and persistent vitamin D intake in a high risk fracture patient population.     

Seasonal variation,hip fracture and vitamin D levels in Southern Tasmania

AIMS: To determine the frequency of vitamin D deficiency in older patients admitted with a hip fracture and to look for seasonal variation in vitamin D levels and hip fracture in Southern Tasmania. METHODS: This was a case series of patients admitted to the Royal Hobart Hospital, Tasmania with a hip fracture from July 1996-June 1997. Information was collected on demographic data, functional activity, associated medical disorders and drug history. RESULTS: There were 91 patients, 66 female with a mean age of 81.3 years. Vitamin D deficiency, defined as a serum 1,25 hydroxyvitamin D level <28 nmol/L was present in 67% of subjects. Vitamin D levels were low throughout the year without significant seasonal variation. There was no seasonal variation in admissions with a hip fracture. The majority of patients (68%) either lived in institutional care or were dependent on a carer and 43% reported going outdoors less than once a week. CONCLUSIONS: The high incidence of vitamin D deficiency in these subjects admitted with a hip fracture reflects reduced sunlight exposure and poor diet and is probably a marker of frailty. The absence of seasonal variation reflects a frailer population likely to be housebound, less mobile and more likely to have falls and sustain a fracture. Older and frailer people may benefit from routine screening for vitamin D deficiency, and replacement therapy should be considered for those found to be deficient.     

Prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in a minimal trauma fracture population

ABSTRACT

Objective: The purpose of this analysis was to report the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in a population of adults with minimal trauma fractures.

Research Design and Methods: 82 adults (ages 52–97 with 63% age 80+) consecutively hospitalized with hip and extremity fractures between August 2001 and January 2002 were recruited from two St. Paul, MN hospitals. Patients came from independent living and assisted living facilities. Demographics, medical history and vitamin D supplementation were obtained by the medical record and self-report. Blood specimens were collected during hospitalization within 48 hours of admission. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations were assessed using Diasorin 25-hydroxyvitamin D radioimmunoassay kit (RIA) at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. Results were available for 78 patients and are included in the current analysis.

Results: Patients were 99% Caucasian, 63% ≥ 80 years and 78% female. 97% were admitted due to hip fracture. On admission, 50% reported using at least 400?IU per day of vitamin D through supplements (including multivitamins) and 13% of all patients were taking osteoporosis medication (3 estrogen, 5 alendronate, 1 etidronate, 1 raloxifene). The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 14.2 (SD 6.6) with a range of 5–39?ng/mL (8–38?ng/mL wintertime vales in Rochester, MN). All but two of the 78 patients (97.4%) had 25(OH)D concentrations < 30?ng/mL and the majority (81%) of the patients had 25(OH)D concentrations < 20?ng/mL, including 21% < 9?ng/mL. Mean 25(OH)D concentrations were not substantially different by gender, age, or osteoporosis medication use. Patients who reported vitamin D supplementation ≥ 400?IU/day had significantly greater mean 25(OH)D concentrations, albeit suboptimal, compared to those who did not (16.4 vs. 13.7?ng/mL; p = 0.002).

Conclusions: Nearly all patients in this study hospitalized for fracture had vitamin D inadequacy. Significant opportunity exists to ensure adequate and persistent vitamin D intake in a high risk fracture patient population.     

肝硬化患者维生素D缺乏的研究

目的研究原发性胆汁性肝硬化（PBC组）和酒精性肝硬化（ALC组）患者血浆维生素D水平。方法58例PBC患者,147例ALC患者测定血浆维生素D水平。34例PBC患者,89例ALC患者用Child-Pugh分级法进行肝病严重性评估。结果ALC组与PBC组血浆维生素D〈50nmol／L（85％眠57％,P〈0．001）,〈25nmol／L（55％VS．16％,P〈0．001）,差异有统计学意义。血浆维生素D降低与Child-Pugh分级得分增加相关。结论肝硬化维生素D降低加重肝病严重性,ALC组维生素D水平低于PBC组。     

Hip fracture mortality and morbidity--can we do better?

AIMS: To determine the mortality and morbidity from fractures of the neck of femur in Christchurch Hospital and to determine the extent that hip fracture patients are investigated and treated for osteoporosis. METHODS: All patients treated for a fractured hip at Christchurch Hospitals between May 1998 and April 1999 were identified. Their radiographs were reviewed and each fracture was classified. Dates of death were recorded where applicable. Surviving patients were contacted at least twelve months after their fracture and asked questions relating to functional outcome following surgery. The numbers of patients who had ever had a bone density scan, treatment for osteoporosis and/or a measurement of vitamin D were recorded. RESULTS: There were 331 fractures among 329 patients (242 women, 87 men), mean age of 79.7 (standard deviation 10.5) years. Twelve-month mortality was 26%. Men had a higher mortality rate than women for all fracture types that was independent of age. Follow up of the 231 surviving patients 12-24 months later revealed 27% still had pain and 60% had worsened mobility that they attributed to the fracture. Worsened mobility affected people living at home more than people living in institutional care. 32 people (15%) had had a vitamin D concentration measured and in 22 of these (69%) levels were below the reference range. CONCLUSIONS: The mortality and morbidity after hip fracture is high, especially in men. There were few significant correlates with greater morbidity except for fixation by hemi arthroplasty. More attention to hip fracture prevention is needed. Few subjects were on any therapy for osteoporosis other than calcium supplements. Vitamin D deficiency is an important but under-recognised condition.     

Vitamin D inadequacy in postmenopausal women in Eastern Asia

ABSTRACT

Objective: To review data on the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy and its causes in postmenopausal women in Eastern Asia.

Research design and method: Data were obtained from the published biomedical literature as well as abstracts and posters presented at scientific meetings. Using MEDLINE, EMBASE and BIOSIS databases (to July 2007), epidemiological studies were identified using the search terms: ‘human’, ‘vitamin D’, ‘vitamin D deficiency’, ‘vitamin D inadequacy’, ‘vitamin D insufficiency’ and ‘hypovitaminosis D’, ‘osteomalacia’ and ‘osteoporosis’. Additional references were also identified from the bibliographies of published articles.

Results: The prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in studies of postmenopausal women (ambulatory or with osteoporosis or related musculoskeletal disorders) in Eastern Asia ranged from 0 to 92%, depending on the cut-off level of serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol [25(OH)D] that was applied (range ≤6–35?ng/mL [≤15–87?nmol/L]). One large international study found that 71% of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis in Eastern Asia had vitamin D inadequacy, defined as serum levels of 25(OH)D <30?ng/mL (75 nmol/L). Prevalence rates using this cut-off level were 47% in Thailand, 49% in Malaysia, 90% in Japan and 92% in South Korea. High prevalences of vitamin D inadequacy were evident in two studies using a lower 25(OH)D level cut-off value of <12?ng/mL(30?nmol/L) – 21% in China and 57% in South Korea. Dietary deficiency and inadequate exposure or reactivity to sunlight (due to lifestyle choices, cultural customs and/or aging) were identified as important risk factors for vitamin D inadequacy.

Conclusions: Non-uniform, epidemiological studies indicate a high prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in postmenopausal women in Eastern Asia. Recommended remedial approaches are education campaigns and broad-based provision of vitamin D supplementation.     

Management of osteoporosis in the elderly

ABSTRACT

Background: Osteoporosis is predominantly a condition of the elderly, and the median age for hip fracture in women is approximately 83 years. Osteoporotic fracture risk is multifactorial, and often involves the balance between bone strength and propensity for falling.

Objective: To present an overview of the available evidence, located primarily by Medline searches up to April, 2009, for the different management strategies aimed at reducing the risk of falls and osteoporotic fractures in the elderly.

Results: Frailty is an independent predictor of falls, hip fractures, hospitalisation, disability and death in the elderly that is receiving increasing attention. Non-pharmacological strategies to reduce fall risk can prevent osteoporotic fractures. Exercise programmes, especially those involving high doses of exercise and incorporating balance training, have been shown to be effective. Many older people, especially the very elderly and those living in care institutions, have vitamin D inadequacy. In appropriate patients and given in sufficient doses, vitamin D and calcium supplementation is effective in reducing both falls and osteoporotic fractures, including hip fractures. Specific anti-osteoporosis drugs are underused, even in those most at risk of osteoporotic fracture. The evidence base for the efficacy of most such drugs in the elderly is incomplete, particularly with regard to nonvertebral and hip fractures. The evidence base is perhaps most complete for the relatively recently introduced drug, strontium ranelate. Non-adherence to treatment is a substantial problem, and may be exacerbated by the requirements for safe oral administration of bisphosphonates.

Conclusion: Evidence-based strategies are available for reducing osteoporotic fracture risk in the elderly, and include exercise training, vitamin D and calcium supplementation, and use of evidence-based anti-osteoporotic drugs. A positive and determined approach to optimising the use of such strategies could reduce the burden of osteoporotic fractures in this high-risk group.     

New insights into the role of vitamin D and calcium in osteoporosis management: an expert roundtable discussion

BACKGROUND: Adequate vitamin D and calcium nutrition play a critical role in the maintenance of musculoskeletal health and are considered the first step in osteoporosis treatment. ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION: In February 2008 Merck Sharp & Dohme sponsored a 2-day, evidence-based expert panel on the benefits of vitamin D for the patient with osteoporosis and the role of vitamin D in combination with antiresorptive therapy for the management of osteoporosis. One of the primary objectives of the meeting was to review new data on the optimal serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels. The symposium was attended by 29 researchers and clinicians from Europe and the Middle East. The discussion focused on optimizing vitamin D and calcium nutrition and reducing falls and fractures in osteoporotic patients. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence and expert opinion suggests that optimal serum 25(OH)D concentrations should be at least 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL) in all individuals. This implies a population mean close to 75 nmol/L (30 ng/mL). In order to achieve this level, vitamin D intake of at least 20 microg daily is required. There is a wider therapeutic window for vitamin D than previously believed, and doses of 800 IU per day, regardless of sun exposure, season or additional multivitamin use, appear to present little risk of toxicity. Apart from fracture and fall prevention, optimization of vitamin D status may also have additional general health benefits. Based on newly emerging data regarding calcium supplementation, and recommendations for increased vitamin D intake, the current recommendations for calcium intake in postmenopausal women may be unnecessarily high. In addition to vitamin D and calcium, treatment of patients with osteoporosis at high risk of fractures should also include pharmacologic agents with proven vertebral and non-vertebral fracture efficacy.     

老年人股骨粗隆间骨折的微创治疗

目的探讨用微创的手术方法治疗老年股骨粗隆间骨折的疗效及注意要点。方法选取2008年1月至2010年6月的老年粗隆间骨折患者共50例,其中男22例,女28例,平均年龄为75-2岁（70．0—85．0岁）,均先给予骨折闭合复位后,其中32例采用Gamma髓内钉固定,18例采用股骨近髓内钉（PFN）固定。随访6～14个月,在骨折临床愈合后,采用Harris髋关节功能评分评估患髋术后功能。结果50例患者在围手术期均无死亡案例发生;骨折全部愈合,愈合时间平均5-8个月（4～8个月）;均未发现股骨干骨折、髋内翻畸形及螺钉切割出股骨颈等并发症发生。结合患髋Harris髋关节功能评分总结：Gamma钉固定优良率为87．5％,PFN固定为83．3％。结论对老年股骨粗隆间骨折患者,采用骨折闭合复位,Gamma钉或PFN微创固定骨折,是一种创伤小、并发症少、疗效可靠治疗方法。     

New insights into the role of vitamin D and calcium in osteoporosis management: an expert roundtable discussion

ABSTRACT

Background: Adequate vitamin D and calcium nutrition play a critical role in the maintenance of musculoskeletal health and are considered the first step in osteoporosis treatment.

Roundtable discussion: In February 2008 Merck Sharp & Dohme sponsored a 2-day, evidence-based expert panel on the benefits of vitamin D for the patient with osteoporosis and the role of vitamin D in combination with antiresorptive therapy for the management of osteo­porosis. One of the primary objectives of the meeting was to review new data on the optimal serum 25-hydroxy­vitamin D [25(OH)D]levels. The symposium was attended by 29 researchers and clinicians from Europe and the Middle East. The discussion focused on optimizing vitamin D and calcium nutrition and reducing falls and fractures in osteoporotic patients.

Conclusions: Current evidence and expert opinion suggests that optimal serum 25(OH)Dconcentrations should be at least 50?nmol/L (20?ng/mL) in all individuals. This implies a population mean close to 75?nmol/L (30?ng/mL). In order to achieve this level, vitamin D intake of at least 20?µg daily is required. There is a wider thera­peutic window for vitamin D than previously believed, and doses of 800?IU per day, regardless of sun exposure, season or additional multivitamin use, appear to present little risk of toxicity. Apart from fracture and fall preven­tion, optimization of vitamin D status may also have additional general health benefits. Based on newly emerging data regarding calcium supplementation, and recommendations for increased vitamin D intake, the current recommendations for calcium intake in postmenopausal women may be unnecessarily high. In addition to vitamin D and calcium, treatment of patients with osteo­porosis at high risk of fractures should also include pharmacologic agents with proven vertebral and non-vertebral fracture efficacy.     

Pharmacotherapy of osteoporosis in men

Osteofragility fractures occur in men due to a compromise in bone strength, coupled with either trauma or a fall. In men ≥ 65years of age, osteoporosis can be defined as bone mineral density (at the proximal femur, spine or distal forearm) of 2.5 standard deviations or less below the mean for a normal young adult man, using a male reference database (i.e., T-score value of ≤-2.5) [1,2]. In men 50 – 65years of age, a similar definition is used if other risk factors for a fracture are present. Osteoporosis is increasingly recognised in men [3-11]. One in three men aged > 60years will suffer an osteoporotic fracture [3]. Spinal fractures occur in 5% of men (compared with 16% of women) and hip fractures in 6% of men (compared with 18% of women) > 50years of age [8]. The risk of hip fracture increases by ～ 2.6-fold for each standard deviation decrease in bone density measured at the hip [12,13]. At present, the life expectancy for men has increased to a mean age of 76.8years. With men now living longer, they can be expected to develop multiple coexisting illnesses contributing to bone loss and an increased likelihood of falling and fragility fractures [5,14,15]. It is estimated that 30 – 60% of men presenting with spinal fractures have another illness contributing to their bone disease [4,6-10,16-20]. The ideal therapy for men with osteoporosis should include an intervention which significantly increases bone strength and reduces fracture rates, is safe, easy to administer and economical. This review outlines the c-urrent treatment strategies available for men with osteoporosis.