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EMAS position statement: Vitamin D and postmenopausal health
Faustino R Pérez-López1, Marc Brincat, C Tamer Erel
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidad de Zaragoza, Facultad de Medicina, Hospital Clínico, Domingo Miral s/n, Zaragoza 50009, Spain. faustino.perez@unizar.es
Maturitas
|November 22, 2011
Summary
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to various health issues beyond bone health, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. While evidence for skeletal benefits is strong, more research is needed for non-skeletal effects in postmenopausal women.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Nutritional Science
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Emerging evidence suggests vitamin D has widespread effects beyond bone health.
- Vitamin D deficiency is associated with osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, infections, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a consensus on the role of vitamin D in postmenopausal women's health.
- To review current evidence on vitamin D's impact on skeletal and non-skeletal outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review.
- Consensus building among expert opinion.
Main Results:
- Evidence for vitamin D's role in skeletal health is robust.
- Evidence for non-skeletal benefits requires more extensive prospective studies.
- Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels are key indicators, with optimal ranges debated (30-90 ng/mL).
- Factors influencing vitamin D levels include season, latitude, skin pigmentation, and lifestyle.
Conclusions:
- Vitamin D plays a crucial role in postmenopausal women's health, particularly for skeletal integrity.
- Further research is essential to confirm the benefits of vitamin D for non-skeletal conditions.
- Recommendations for intake and supplementation should consider individual risk factors and health status.
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