Falls and osteoporotic fractures are major causes of disability, loss of independence, and healthcare utilization among older adults worldwide. Approximately one-third of adults aged ≥65 years’ experience at least one fall annually, with fractures contributing substantially to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
Calcium and vitamin D supplements have long been recommended to improve bone health and reduce fracture risk. However, evidence regarding their effectiveness in preventing fractures and falls in the general adult population has remained inconsistent, leading to ongoing debate regarding routine supplementation.
A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in The BMJ evaluated the effects of calcium, vitamin D monotherapy, and combined supplementation on fracture and fall prevention. The analysis found that not the monotherapy, but the combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation was associated with a modest reduction in fracture risk, although the benefit was not considered clinically meaningful for routine use in most adults.
(Source: Massé O, Mercurio CM, Dupuis S, Al Sahwi M, Arruda A, Dallaire G, Desforges K, Dugré N, Williamson D. Calcium, vitamin D, or combined supplementation to prevent fractures and falls: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2026 May 20;393:e088050. doi: 10.1136/bmj-2025-088050.)