(18 mins 33 Secs)

Summary Points: Vitamin D may protect against age-related DNS shortening in women, a known risk factor for heart attacks. Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency is prevalent, especially in elderly women. A study suggests that in African American men, vitamin D insufficiency may contribute to lower hip bone density. Menstrual disorders, low bone density and fractures are common in young women who exercise regularly or restrict their diets.

Presenters:

• Dr. J Brent Richards, Centre for Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College, London.
• Dr. Elena Barengolts, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit.
• Dr. Anne Loucks, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio