Association between Blood Parameters of Nutritional Status and Functional Status in Extreme Longevity.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between functional and nutritional status in the geriatric population remains an issue of debate and there is a gap in the knowledge regarding this field in long-lived individuals. AIM: The main aim of this study was to assess the association between selected blood parameters of nutritional status and functional status in extreme longevity. METHODS: The inclusion criteria were centenarians above 100 years of age who were examined at their homes, and blood samples were collected. The study group consisted of 170 individuals (25 men and 145 women, median age 100.75 years [100.29-101.58]). RESULTS: Total protein and albumin serum concentration was significantly lower in long-lived individuals with severe functional decline compared to individuals with preserved functional status, p = 0.000001 and p = 0.0000, respectively. Iron serum level was significantly higher in the group with preserved functional status, p = 0.04. Preserved functional status was positively correlated with total protein serum concentration (p = 0.000), albumin concentration (p = 0.000), and iron serum level (p = 0.029). A negative correlation was stated between c-reactive protein (CRP) and functional status (p = 0.032). Univariable logistic regression analysis showed that the functional status of long-lived individuals depends on total protein (OR 2.89, CI 95% [1.67-5.0]) and albumin concentrations (OR 2.34, CI 95% [1.39-3.92]). Multivariable backward stepwise logistic regression analysis showed that a total protein concentration was the only variable independently related to the preserved functional status (OR 3.2, 95% Cl [1.8-5.67]). CONCLUSIONS: In long-lived individuals, the total serum protein and albumin levels are lower in centenarians with severe functional decline, and they correlate with functional status. Total protein serum concentration is the only factor independently related to the preserved functional status in extreme longevity.

Daily and Weekly "High Doses" of Cholecalciferol for the Prevention and Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency for Obese or Multi-Morbidity and Multi-Treatment Patients Requiring Multi-Drugs-A Narrative Review.

Daily vitamin D supplementation using higher than normal dosing (up to the upper limit value) and intermittent (once or twice per week) dosing were studied in patients with increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. Using a PubMed database, a thorough search for published randomized controlled trials and other studies was conducted, and the results were analyzed. This review provides an overview of the use of 7000 IU daily, 30,000 IU per week or twice weekly, and 50,000 IU weekly of vitamin D for obtaining and maintaining 25(OH)D concentrations of at least 30 ng/mL in patients at high risk of vitamin D deficiency. The abovementioned dosages should be considered in adults with obesity, liver disease or malabsorption syndromes, or multi-diseased patients, mainly seniors requiring multi-drug treatment, including drugs affecting vitamin D metabolism. The simple schedules of 7000 IU/day, 30,000 IU/week or twice weekly, and 50,000 IU/week for use by patients with an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency were provided for consideration. Without monitoring of 25(OH)D, daily doses of 7000 IU or intermittent doses of 30,000 IU/week should be considered for a prolonged time as prophylactic or maintenance doses, mainly in obese patients, patients with liver disease and patients with malabsorption syndromes. For the treatment of possible vitamin D deficiency without assessment of 25(OH)D in these groups, intermittent doses of 30,000 IU twice weekly or 50,000 IU per week should be considered for a 6-8-week period only. The higher daily doses or the intermittent doses suggested above are effective, safe and responsive based on patient's preferences.

Osteoporosis treatment with denosumab in routine clinical practice in Poland.

INTRODUCTION: The receptor activator for nuclear factor k B ligand (RANKL) inhibitor denosumab is approved for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at increased fracture risk. The objectives were to describe the characteristics of patients with osteoporosis initiating denosumab in Polish clinical practice and their clinical management during the first 12 months of denosumab treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective, observational study enrolled denosumab-naïve women and men in Poland with osteoporosis, who had received at least one denosumab injection in the 8 weeks prior to enrolment. Patients were enrolled from specialist osteoporosis treatment centres, and orthopaedic, rheumatological, and family doctor centres. Outcomes included patient characteristics, denosumab treatment patterns, bone mineral density (BMD), and fracture; all analyses were descriptive. RESULTS: The study enrolled 463 patients; most (96%) were women, aged ≥ 65 years (84%), with prior fractures (88%). Approximately two-thirds of the women had received prior osteoporosis therapy, with the main reasons for discontinuation being adverse events (75%) and lack of effect (73%). Across all patients, the most common reasons for prescribing denosumab were low bone mineral density (BMD/T-score) (93%) and history of osteoporotic fracture (78%). Mean BMD at denosumab initiation ranged from T-score -3.00 (lumbar spine) to T-score -2.6 (total hip), and BMD increased by 2.8-6.2% at month 12. Most patients completed follow-up (86%) and were due to receive a third denosumab injection (81%). CONCLUSION: The article presents detailed sociodemographic and disease-related characteristics of patients who routinely implemented denosumab therapy. Most of them continued denosumab for at least 12 months, with increased BMD T-scores.

Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis in Poland. Update 2022.

Guidelines to provide an update of the previously published Polish recommendations for the management of women and men with osteoporosis have been developed in line with advances in medical knowledge, evidence-based data, and new concepts in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. A Working Group of experts from the Multidisciplinary Osteoporosis Forum and from the National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology, and Rehabilitation in Warsaw performed a thorough comprehensive review of current relevant publications in the field (including all age groups of people and management of secondary osteoporosis), and they evaluated epidemiological data on osteoporosis in Poland and the existing standards of care and costs. A voting panel of all co-authors assessed and discussed the quality of evidence to formulate 29 specific recommendations and voted independently the strength of each recommendation. This updated practice guidance highlights a new algorithm of the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for individuals at high and very high fracture risk and presents a spectrum of general management and the use of medication including anabolic therapy. Furthermore, the paper discusses the strategy of primary and secondary fracture prevention, detection of fragility fractures in the population, and points to vital elements for improving management of osteoporosis in Poland.

Guidelines for Preventing and Treating Vitamin D Deficiency: A 2023 Update in Poland.

Introduction: All epidemiological studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among the Polish general population. Since vitamin D deficiency was shown to be among the risk factors for many diseases and for all-cause mortality, concern about this problem led us to update the previous Polish recommendations. Methods: After reviewing the epidemiological evidence, case-control studies and randomized control trials (RCTs), a Polish multidisciplinary group formulated questions on the recommendations for prophylaxis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency both for the general population and for the risk groups of patients. The scientific evidence of pleiotropic effects of vitamin D as well as the results of panelists' voting were reviewed and discussed. Thirty-four authors representing different areas of expertise prepared position statements. The consensus group, representing eight Polish/international medical societies and eight national specialist consultants, prepared the final Polish recommendations. Results: Based on networking discussions, the ranges of total serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration indicating vitamin D deficiency [<20 ng/mL (<50 nmol/L)], suboptimal status [20-30 ng/mL (50-75 nmol/L)], and optimal concentration [30-50 ng/mL (75-125 nmol/L)] were confirmed. Practical guidelines for cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) as the first choice for prophylaxis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency were developed. Calcifediol dosing as the second choice for preventing and treating vitamin D deficiency was introduced. Conclusions: Improving the vitamin D status of the general population and treatment of risk groups of patients must be again announced as healthcare policy to reduce a risk of spectrum of diseases. This paper offers consensus statements on prophylaxis and treatment strategies for vitamin D deficiency in Poland.

Malnutrition in Older Adults-Effect on Falls and Fractures: A Narrative Review.

Malnutrition in older adults impacts health status, increased mortality, and morbidity. Malnutrition may increase the development of geriatric syndromes and contribute to a higher prevalence of falls and osteoporotic fractures that lead to loss of independence and an increased rate of institutionalization. The role of malnutrition in the pathogenesis of other geriatric syndromes seems to be well established. However, the data concerning nutritional interventions are confounding. Moreover, long-term undernutrition seems to be one of the factors that strongly influences the efficacy of interventions. This review outlines the current literature on this topic, and aims to guide physicians to make proper decisions to prevent the vicious cycle of falls, fractures, and their negative outcomes in patients with malnutrition.

Fracture risk in obesity: a narrative review.

While low body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor for fractures, the association between obesity and fracture risk is inconsistent and puzzling. Several studies reported higher fracture risk (FR), and others reported lower FR in obese populations. Our narrative review presents the overall incidence of fractures by anatomic locations in adult patients, geriatric populations, and in those after bariatric surgery. In conclusion, obesity should be considered as a fracture risk in adults, as well as falls and fractures in geriatric patients, in particular in those with sarcopenic obesity, and after bariatric surgery. The specific characteristics of fractures risk associated with obesity should be considered by physicians in the diagnostic and therapeutic work-up of obese patients. This review outlines the current literature on this topic and aims to guide physicians regarding proper decisions to prevent fractures in patients with obesity.

Switching from one generic alendronate to another--a common procedure in Poland in the years 2001-2005.

INTRODUCTION: In clinical ambulatory practice, patients often, rather than discontinuing treatment, change to another one. This study aims to assess the reasons why patients with osteoporosis switch from one alendronate to another with a different brand name. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 747 bisphosphonate-treated patients was performed (651 female, average age 67.3 ± 8.9 years, BMI 26.5 ± 4.0 kg/m(2)). The frequency and reasons for drug switching during the 19.4 ± 13.4 months of observation were analysed. RESULTS: In 387 (51.8%) patients, treatment was not changed during the observation period, whereas in 360 (48.2%) patients, at least one drug switch occurred. Almost 40% of patients from that group (138 patients) switched from one alendronate to another alendronate with a different brand name. The most frequent reasons were: adverse event (36.9%), high price of the drug (23.2%) and request of patient (16.7%). CONCLUSIONS: A substantial proportion of persistent bisphosphonate-treated patients switch treatment from one alendronate to another. The most frequent reasons for that kind of switching are the occurrence of an adverse event and the high cost of treatment.

Vitamin D Deficiency in Older Patients-Problems of Sarcopenia, Drug Interactions, Management in Deficiency.

Vitamin D deficiency frequently occurs in older people, especially in individuals with comorbidity and polypharmacotherapy. In this group, low vitamin D plasma concentration is related to osteoporosis, osteomalacia, sarcopenia and myalgia. Vitamin D levels in humans is an effect of the joint interaction of all vitamin D metabolic pathways. Therefore, all factors interfering with individual metabolic stages may affect 25-hydroxyvitamin D plasma concentration. The known factors affecting vitamin D metabolism interfere with cytochrome CYP3A4 activity. There is another group of factors that impairs intestinal vitamin D absorption. The phenomenon of drugs and vitamin D interactions is observed first and foremost in patients with comorbidity. This is a typical situation, where the absence of "hard evidence" is not synonymous with the possible lack of adverse effects. Osteoporosis and sarcopenia (generalized and progressive decrease of skeletal muscle mass and strength) are some of the musculoskeletal consequences of hypovitaminosis D. These consequences are related to an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including bone fractures, physical disabilities, and a lower quality of life. This can lead not only to an increased risk of falls and fractures but is also one of the main causes of frailty syndrome in the aging population. Generally, Vitamin D plasma concentration is significantly lower in subjects with osteoporosis and muscle deterioration. In some observational and uncontrolled treatment studies, vitamin D supplementation resulted in a reduction of proximal myopathy and muscle pain. The most conclusive results were found in subjects with severe vitamin D deficiency and in patients avoiding large doses of vitamin D. However, the role of vitamin D in muscle pathologies is not clear and research has provided conflicting results. This is plausibly due to the heterogeneity of the subjects, vitamin D doses and environmental factors. This report presents data on some problems with vitamin D deficiency in the elderly population and the management of vitamin D deficiency D in successful or unsuccessful aging.

[Prophylaxis of vitamin D deficiency--Polish recommendation 2009]. / Stanowisko Zespolu Ekspertów. Polskie zalecenia dotyczace profilaktyki niedoborów witaminy D - 2009.

Adequate vitamin D intake and its status are important not only for bone health and Ca-P metabolism, but for optimal function of many organs and tissues throughout the body. Due to documented changes in dietary habits and physical activity level, both observed in growing children and adults, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is continuously increasing. Basing on current literature review and opinions of National Consultants and experts in the field, polish recommendations for prophylactic vitamin D supplementation in infants, toddlers, children and adolescents as well as in adults, including pregnant and lactating women have been established.

[Prophylaxis of vitamin D deficiency--Polish recommendations 2009]. / Polskie zalecenia dotyczace profilaktyki niedoborów witaminy D--2009.

Appropriate state procurement system for vitamin D is important not only for the proper functioning of the skeletal, maintaining calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, but also for a number of other organs and tissues in our body. In connection with the change in lifestyle including dietary habits change, the widespread use of UV filters and less outdoor activity, observed an increase in the percentage of vitamin D deficiency, both in population and developmental age and adults. Based on the results of recent scientific research team of experts provides recommendations for preventive Polish supply of vitamin D in infants, children, adolescents and adults, including pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Vitamin D supplementation in adults - guidelines.

Vitamin D is necessary in maintaining appropriate calcium and phosphate homeostasis in the body (classical function) and ensuring appropriate functioning of many tissues, organs and cells, unrelated to mineral economy (non-classical function). Vitamin D deficiency in adults may cause osteomalacia, increase fracture risk in osteoporosis, induce cardiovascular diseases, diabetes type 1 and 2, multiple sclerosis, Lesniowski-Crohn disease, and cancer, including colon, breast, and prostate cancer. Possible causes of vitamin D deficiency in a healthy population include decreased cutaneous synthesis and an inadequate intake of vitamin D, both in food and in supplements. Vitamin D deficiency level (25(OH) D. 〈 20 ng/mL), is fairly widespread, being found in a substantial percentage of healthy subjects around the world, regardless of race, gender and age. Daily vitamin D dose, as determined by the Food and Nutrition Board in 1997, is now rather insufficient, the biggest problem being associated with maximal vitamin D levels (50 µg/day) in actually available food supplements. Nowadays, it is recommended that adults need a minimum of 800-1,000 U/day when their exposure to the sun is inadequate (in Poland from October to April). This dosage should be provided to all subjects who avoid sunlight, as well as to those aged over 65 because of their slower skin synthesis of vitamin D and for its proven anti-fracture and anti-fall effects.

Age-related differences in vitamin D status in Polish centenarians compared with 65-year-olds.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin D status is known to change with age. However, little is known about vitamin D status in centenarians. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess vitamin D status and correlations among the levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25­hydroxycholecalciferol (25[OH]D), 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25[OH]D), calcium, inorganic phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in centenarians. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study group included 97 participants: 81 women and 16 men (median [interquartile range [IQR]) age, 101.4 [100.5-102.16] years). Centenarians were visited at their homes where examinations were conducted and blood samples collected. The control group consisted of 57 elderly subjects: 35 women and 22 men (median [IQR] age, 65.9 [65.3-66.5] years). The concentrations of PTH, 25(OH)D, and 1,25(OH)D were measured in frozen plasma samples, and calcium, phosphorus, and ALP levels, in serum samples. RESULTS: The median calcium level was 8.88 mg/dl in centenarians versus 9.52 mg/dl in 65­year-old subjects (P <0.01); ALP, 223 IU versus 190 IU (P = 0.01); phosphorus, 3.01 mg/dl versus 3.23 mg/dl (P = 0.13); PTH, 45.59 pg/ml versus 29.27 pg/ml (P <0.01); 25(OH)D, 7.39 ng/ml versus 19.81 ng/ml (P <0.01); 1,25(OH)D, 57.5 pmol/l versus 78.6 pmol/l (P <0.01). Only centenarians demonstrated correlations among the measured laboratory parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Considering lower 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)D, and calcium concentrations in the majority of centenarians, as well as the negative correlation between vitamin D active metabolites and PTH, vitamin D and calcium should be systematically supplemented in the oldest of the elderly.

[Utility of laboratory tests in evaluation of fracture risk and in differential diagnostics of low bone mass in asymptomatic postmenopausal women]. / Przydatnosc badan laboratoryjnych do oceny ryzyka zlaman i w diagnostyce róznicowej malej masy kostnej u asymptomatycznych kobiet po menopauzie.

INTRODUCTION: Until now, there are no specific guidelines for laboratory evaluation in asymptomatic patients with low bone mineral density (BMD). The aim of the study was to estimate the utility of laboratory tests in evaluation of fracture risk and in differential diagnostics of low bone mass in asymptomatic postmenopausal women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: That was a retrospective study of 207 women. The results of laboratory investigations, densitometry and thoracic lumbar X-rays were analyzed. The relationship between BMD, vertebral fractures and abnormal lab tests was investigated. In patients with low BMD, reasons of this pathology was determined and costs of differential diagnostics were estimated. RESULTS: There were no differences in prevalence of abnormal lab tests in women with BMD that met and didn't meet densitometry criteria of osteoporosis (85.05% vs. 82.00%). Similarly, in people with and without vertebral fractures (84.44% vs. 86.27%). There was no relationship between osteoporosis and abnormal tests except of high PTH in the group with vertebral fractures. In 64% of women, the cause of low BMD was asymptomatic pathology other then primary osteoporosis - most often vitamin D deficiency (52.0%). Costs of lab tests used in differential diagnostics were between 45 and 153 PLN, person and 182.50-409.10 PLN per diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: 1. Laboratory tests aren't useful to assess fracture risk. 2. In 64% of asymptomatic postmenopausal women with low BMD, the cause of this abnormality may by pathology that coexists with primary osteoporosis. 3. To assess the cause of low BMD, except basic lab tests, 25(OH)D should be tested.

[Influence of weight reduction on leptin concentration and bone mineral density in patients with morbid obesity before and 6 months after bariatric surgery]. / Wplyw zmniejszenia masy ciala na stezenie leptyny i gestosc mineralu kostnego u osób z otyloscia olbrzymia przed i 6 miesiecy po operacji bariatrycznej.

INTRODUCTION: Leptin is considered to exert dual effect on bone metabolism: anabolic (through peripheral pathways) and antiosteogenic (through central nervous system). The total leptin's effect on bone is not known. The aim of the study was to examine bone metabolism and leptin concentration in patients with morbid obesity before and after bariatric surgery (BS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty one patients with morbid obesity selected for BS were included in the prospective study. Body mass index (BMI), serum leptin, parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations and bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine (LS) and proximal femur (PF) were examined before and 6 months after BS. RESULTS: Before operation (mean BMI 44.0 kg/m(2)) mean leptin and PTH concentration was increased (accordingly 37.1 ng/ml and 82.7 pg/ml), mean 25OHD concentration was decreased to 4.3 ng/ml. Mean BMD was within the upper limit of the population reference range. Leptin concentration was positively correlated with BMI. There was no correlation of leptin with BMD (in LS and PF), PTH and 25(OH)D. Following the operation (mean BMI 31.8 kg/m(2)) mean leptin concentration decreased by 30.6 ng/ml (p < 0.001), PTH decreased by 38.9 pg/ml (p < 0.001), 25(OH)D increased by 2.1 ng/ml (NS). Mean BMD in LS increased by 0.067 g/cm(2) (p < 0.005), in PF decreased by 0.044 g/cm(2) (p < 0.02). Leptin was positively correlated with BMI but not with BMD (in both sites), PTH, 25(OH)D. CONCLUSIONS: Weight loss in patients with morbid obesity after BS leads to decrease in serum leptin, increase in BMD in LS and decrease in PF. These changes are accompanied by regression of hyperparathyroidism, which is probably secondary to vitamin D deficiency.

Feasibility of simultaneous measurement of bone formation and bone resorption markers to assess bone turnover rate in postmenopausal women: an EPOLOS study.

BACKGROUND: One of the most important risk factors for osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women is elevated bone turnover (EBT), occurring in 25-30% of this population. This study's aim was to find a correlation between bone resorption and bone formation markers to assess bone turnover rate and qualify an individual postmenopausal woman as a possible EBT subject. MATERIAL/METHODS: Three hundred twenty postmenopausal women (> or = one year after the last menstruation, < or = 70 years old) were enrolled at seven clinical sites in this cross-sectional observational study conducted within the EPOLOS. The group was a random sample of the population. The study was performed in a referral center involved in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. The exclusion criteria included pregnancy, cancer, fracture in the last year, and overweight (> 100 kg). Bone mineral density (BMD) measurements of the lumbar spine, total hip, trochanter, and femoral neck regions were performed. Bone resorption and formation rates were evaluated by serum levels of C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) and osteocalcin (OC), respectively. RESULTS: Using logistic regression to correlate the concentrations of CTX and OC it was possible not only to distinguish the EBT subgroup, but also to construct a simple nomogram for easy classification of individual patients as possible EBT subjects. EBT patients showed generally decreased BMD values and increased bone formation and resorption rates. CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation of both CTX and OC levels enables a more proper indication for EBT. The proposed nomogram may assist in evaluating outcome from the two markers of bone turnover.

[Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy and lactation]. / Niedobory witaminy D w okresie ciazy i laktacji.

Vitamin D deficiency is a common occurrence and concerns people all around the world, not withstanding pregnant women. Vitamin D is essential for normal mineralization of the fetal skeleton. Latest reports have confirmed that an optimal vitamin D supply is of great importance for health course of pregnancy and it influences the general state of the child's health after birth, as well as their whole life. It seems that the Recommended Dietary Allowance (the RDA) of vitamin D in pregnancy and lactation of 200-400 IU/d is too small and it needs to be changed. In this article we present: a new definition of vitamin D deficiency; its epidemiology and changes of calcium homeostasis during pregnancy and lactation; a review of literature related to the influence of vitamin D deficiency on the health of the mother and child, as well as controversies related to supplementary doses of vitamin D.

Vitamin D Toxicity-A Clinical Perspective.

Confusion, apathy, recurrent vomiting, abdominal pain, polyuria, polydipsia, and dehydration are the most often noted clinical symptoms of vitamin D toxicity (VDT; also called vitamin D intoxication or hypervitaminosis D). VDT and its clinical manifestation, severe hypercalcemia, are related to excessive long-term intake of vitamin D, malfunctions of the vitamin D metabolic pathway, or the existence of coincident disease that produces the active vitamin D metabolite locally. Although VDT is rare, the health effects can be serious if it is not promptly identified. Many forms of exogenous (iatrogenic) and endogenous VDT exist. Exogenous VDT is usually caused by the inadvertent or improper intake of extremely high doses of pharmacological preparations of vitamin D and is associated with hypercalcemia. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations higher than 150 ng/ml (375 nmol/l) are the hallmark of VDT due to vitamin D overdosing. Endogenous VDT may develop from excessive production of an active vitamin D metabolite - 1,25(OH)2D in granulomatous disorders and in some lymphomas or from the reduced degradation of that metabolite in idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia. Endogenous VDT may also develop from an excessive production of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D in congenital disorders, such as Williams-Beuren syndrome. Laboratory testing during routine clinical examinations may reveal asymptomatic hypercalcemia caused by the intake of vitamin D even in doses recommended for the general population and considered safe. That phenomenon, called hypersensitivity to vitamin D, reflects dysregulated vitamin D metabolism. Researchers have proposed many processes to explain VDT. Those processes include elevated activity of 1α-hydroxylase or inhibited activity of 24-hydroxylase, both leading to increased concentration of 1,25(OH)D; increased number of vitamin D receptors; and saturation of the capacity of vitamin D binding protein. Increased public awareness of vitamin D-related health benefits might increase the risk of VDT due to self-administration of vitamin D in doses higher then recommended for age and body weight or even higher than the established upper limit intake values. Consequently, the incidence of hypercalcemia due to hypervitaminosis D might increase.

Vitamin D supplementation guidelines.

Research carried out during the past two-decades extended the understanding of actions of vitamin D, from regulating calcium and phosphate absorption and bone metabolism to many pleiotropic actions in organs and tissues in the body. Most observational and ecological studies report association of higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations with improved outcomes for several chronic, communicable and non-communicable diseases. Consequently, numerous agencies and scientific organizations have developed recommendations for vitamin D supplementation and guidance on optimal serum 25(OH)D concentrations. The bone-centric guidelines recommend a target 25(OH)D concentration of 20ng/mL (50nmol/L), and age-dependent daily vitamin D doses of 400-800IU. The guidelines focused on pleiotropic effects of vitamin D recommend a target 25(OH)D concentration of 30ng/mL (75nmol/L), and age-, body weight-, disease-status, and ethnicity dependent vitamin D doses ranging between 400 and 2000IU/day. The wise and balanced choice of the recommendations to follow depends on one's individual health outcome concerns, age, body weight, latitude of residence, dietary and cultural habits, making the regional or nationwide guidelines more applicable in clinical practice. While natural sources of vitamin D can raise 25(OH)D concentrations, relative to dietary preferences and latitude of residence, in the context of general population, these sources are regarded ineffective to maintain the year-round 25(OH)D concentrations in the range of 30-50ng/mL (75-125nmol/L). Vitamin D self-administration related adverse effects, such as hypercalcemia and hypercalciuria are rare, and usually result from taking extremely high doses of vitamin D for a prolonged time.

Vitamin D Supplementation Guidelines for General Population and Groups at Risk of Vitamin D Deficiency in Poland-Recommendations of the Polish Society of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes and the Expert Panel With Participation of National Specialist Consultants and Representatives of Scientific Societies-2018 Update.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin D deficiency is an important public health problem worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency confers a significant risk for both skeletal and non-skeletal disorders and a number of lifelong negative health outcomes. The objectives of this evidence-based guidelines document are to provide health care professionals in Poland, an updated recommendation for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency. METHODS: A systematic literature search examining the prevention and treatment strategies for vitamin D deficiency was conducted. Updated recommendations were developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system describing the strength of the recommendation and the quality of supporting evidence. Twenty-seven contributors representing different areas of expertise and medical specialties, including pediatricians, geriatricians, endocrinologists, epidemiologists, nephrologists, gynecologists and obstetricians evaluated the available published evidence related to vitamin D, formulated the goals of this document and developed a common consolidated position. The consensus group, representing six national specialist consultants and eight Polish and international scientific organizations/societies, participated in the process of grading evidence and drawing up the general and specific recommendations. RESULTS: The updated recommendations define the diagnostic criteria for the evaluation of vitamin D status and describe the prevention and treatment strategies of vitamin D deficiency in the general population and in groups at increased risk of the deficiency. Age- and weight-specific recommendations for prevention, supplementation and treatment of vitamin D deficiency are presented, and detailed practice guidance is discussed regarding the management in primary and specialized health care. CONCLUSION: Vitamin D deficiency remains still highly prevalent in Poland, in all age groups. Currently, there is a great necessity to implement a regular supplementation with recommended doses and to develop an effective strategy to alleviate vitamin D deficiency in the population. These updated recommendations are addressed to health professionals and the authorities pursuing comprehensive health policies and should also be included in public health programs aimed at preventing a broad spectrum of chronic diseases.