The US Preventive Services Task Force released a draft recommendation statement giving D grade recommendations against vitamin D supplementation, with or without calcium, to prevent fractures in community-dwelling postmenopausal women and men aged 60 and older. The Task Force also recommended against vitamin D supplementation to prevent falls in this same population, also a D grade.

The guidance merged 2 previously separate recommendations. The recommendation applied to community-dwelling adults and excluded individuals with osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, medical conditions affecting vitamin D absorption, or those taking supplements for other medical conditions.

Task Force member John M. Ruiz, PhD, reported that the evidence review found vitamin D supplementation, with or without calcium, did not prevent falls or fractures in older adults and indicated potential harms, including an increased risk of kidney stones.

"Unfortunately, when we reviewed the latest evidence, we found that taking vitamin D with or without calcium does not prevent falls or fractures in older adults, so we recommend against these supplements for people who are not taking them for other medical reasons," said Task Force member John M. Ruiz, PhD. There could be potential harms, including an increased risk for kidney stones.

The analysis addressed falls and fractures in older populations, representing the leading cause of injury among older adults. The Task Force examined vitamin D and calcium's role in bone health and reviewed whether supplements helped older adults avoid falling and breaking bones.

“The good news is there are evidence-based ways for older adults to maintain good bone health,” said Task Force member Goutham Rao, MD, FAHA. Other preventive services include osteoporosis screening in women and structured exercise programs for older adults at increased fall risk.

The USPSTF opened the draft recommendation and evidence review for public comment through January 21, 2025, extending the typical 4-week comment period to 5 weeks for the holiday season.

The Task Force consists of an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine that develop recommendations about clinical preventive services.