VITAMIN D
AS THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT ISSUES NEW GUIDANCE RECOMMENDING THAT EVERYONE AGED FIVE AND ABOVE SHOULD TAKE A DAILY SUPPLEMENT OF 10μg OF VITAMIN D, SP LOOKS AT THE ROLE THAT YOU AS A COMMUNITY PHARMACIST PLAY IN ENSURING COMPLIANCE WITH THIS ADVICE.
VITAMIN D:
Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that almost one billion individuals worldwide may have insuffi cient or defi cient levels of the vitamin, meaning that many people need more vitamin D without realising it.
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While defi ciency may be a global issue, however, few – if any – governments have taken the groundbreaking step that the Scottish government has taken in attempting to address it. The publication of the recent guideline, which states that everyone over fi ve
10 - SCOTTISH PHARMACIST
itamin D insuffi ciency has now become a global problem. Last May, a review published in the
years of age should consider taking a supplement – particularly during the winter months (October-March) - clearly demonstrates the government’s acknowledgement of the health benefi ts that the so-called ‘sunshine vitamin’ can bring to the majority of the population – regardless of age.
Defi ciency in vitamin D in Scotland is actually worse than anywhere else in the United Kingdom. In fact, it’s estimated that Scotland is worse off as a result of the fact that it receives 30- 50 per cent less ultraviolet radiation (UVB) from the sun due to its high latitude and persistent low cloud cover.
GROUNDBREAKING STEP BY SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
The Scottish government’s decision to make this announcement is a clear indication that it now accepts the advice of internationally recognised experts, who have said that vitamin D defi ciency is a major risk factor in a long list of chronic diseases.
Until recently, many healthcare workers were unaware of the consequences of vitamin D defi ciency and its role in chronic disease, but, thanks to the government’s efforts, this lack of knowledge may be quickly redressed, and community pharmacists will have a central role in explaining both the symptoms of vitamin D defi ciency to patients – in some cases
actually recognising the symptoms – and in potentially testing for defi ciency within the pharmacy.
SO, WHAT SYMPTOMS WOULD INDICATE A DEFICIENCY? Well, multiple studies have suggested a connection between low vitamin D levels and increased incidence and death from cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, multiple sclerosis and diabetes.
WHY IS THERE A DEFICIENCY? The body produces vitamin D provided there is an adequate amount of UVB light from sun exposure, meaning that our intakes during the ‘darker’ months
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