29 July 2010 | Mark J Bolland, Alison Avenell, John A Baron, Andrew Grey, Graeme S MacLennan, Greg D Gamble, Ian R Reid
This meta-analysis investigates the effect of calcium supplements on the risk of cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and mortality. The study included 15 randomized, placebo-controlled trials with a total of 12,000 participants. The analysis found that calcium supplements without co-administered vitamin D were associated with a 30% increased risk of MI compared to placebo. Smaller, non-significant increases in the risk of stroke and mortality were also observed. The findings suggest that the widespread use of calcium supplements could lead to a significant burden of cardiovascular disease in the population. Given the modest benefits of calcium supplements on bone density and fracture prevention, the authors recommend a reassessment of their role in the management of osteoporosis.This meta-analysis investigates the effect of calcium supplements on the risk of cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and mortality. The study included 15 randomized, placebo-controlled trials with a total of 12,000 participants. The analysis found that calcium supplements without co-administered vitamin D were associated with a 30% increased risk of MI compared to placebo. Smaller, non-significant increases in the risk of stroke and mortality were also observed. The findings suggest that the widespread use of calcium supplements could lead to a significant burden of cardiovascular disease in the population. Given the modest benefits of calcium supplements on bone density and fracture prevention, the authors recommend a reassessment of their role in the management of osteoporosis.