The Global Calcium Dashboard: Country-Specific Data on Calcium Intakes, Policies, and Related Health Outcomes

Low calcium intake is a widespread global health problem that impacts maternal health, neonatal survival, and the development of chronic health problems such as osteoporosis. Despite its important health implications, fragmented data on calcium intakes and related health outcomes have hindered more strategic responses. We aimed to develop a centralized, interactive platform that visualizes calcium intakes, associated health outcomes, and policies across countries. The Global Calcium Dashboard integrates datasets that include calcium intake estimates, as well as calcium supplementation guidelines, food-based recommendations, and fortification legislation. Epidemiological data and modeled estimates on preterm births, maternal hypertensive disorders, and bone fractures were also incorporated to highlight areas with the greatest potential need for improved calcium intake. Country typologies were created based on the risk of adverse health outcomes and the presence of policies or guidelines for calcium interventions. Countries with the greatest risk of adverse health outcomes and lacking calcium intervention policies were primarily found in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia. Supporting these countries in developing calcium-based interventions to address this nutrient gap has the greatest likelihood to improve health outcomes, especially for mothers and their infants.