Vitamin D Awareness Among Community Living Adults Sabina Sharmeen MD Sheela Dwivedi MDMD, Division of Geriatrics

Background Information Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition associated with osteoporosis and bone fracture and presents a serious risk for physical disability, reduced quality of life, increased mortality and health expense AGS Fall guidelines suggest supplementation with at least 800 international units daily in those with deficiency, suspected deficiency, or at high fall risk USPTF recommends Vitamin D in addition to exercise or PT to prevent falls in community living older adults who are at risk for fall Prior studies show gaps in patient awareness and health provider discussions regarding the importance and use of Vitamin D Objective: To investigate vitamin D awareness and use among community living adults

Methods –A survey questionnaire was distributed to participants from January to April 2013 –Setting: Two outpatient physician practices and four senior community events. –The 8 question survey was used to collect data on: -Participant demographics -Participant’s awareness and knowledge about source of vitamin D -Discussions with healthcare providers -The use of Vitamin D supplements -The dose of vitamin D supplements

Results Participant Demographics 232 total participants 86 from outpatient office settings 146 from senior community events Mean age was 64, with an age range of % were Caucasian 80% were female

Results (cont) 98% heard of Vitamin D 56% had discussed Vitamin D with their healthcare provider 47% were taking Vitamin D supplements Of these, 63% took 800 or 1,000 international units daily 93% included Vitamin D rich foods into their daily diet 60% considered sun exposure a source of vitamin D 38% suggested PCP-patient discussion to promote Vitamin D awareness

CONCLUSION Although most survey participants were aware of Vitamin D about ½ had discussed Vitamin D with their healthcare provider and were taking supplementation Collaboration between healthcare providers and community members is needed to promote Vitamin D discussions at office visits Simple interventions such as providing education about vitamin D at office visits may prevent deficiency related illness and reduce the associated burden of disease Awareness of vitamin D deficiency among at-risk patients BMC Research Notes 2012, 5: AGS/BGS Clinical Practice Guideline: Prevention of Falls in Older Persons