30/07/2010
Caution needed over calcium supplement heart attack link
New analysis of previous research shows there could
be a link between taking calcium supplements and risk of heart
attack.
We say that if your doctor has advised you to
take the supplements you should not stop taking
them based on the results of this analysis alone.
Our Senior Cardiac Nurse, Judy
O'Sullivan, said:
“We need to be cautious about
the results of this analysis because none of the studies involved
were designed to look specifically at the relationship between
calcium supplements and the risk of heart attack.
“However, the research should not be
completely ignored. Any new guidelines on the
prevention of fractures in those most vulnerable to them should
take this type of analysis into account.
“Anyone who has been advised by their doctor
to take calcium supplements shouldn’t stop because
of this research alone.”
The analysis of 15 separate studies, published
in the British
Medical Journal, found that calcium supplements were
associated with about a 30 per cent increased risk
of heart attack.
If you’re taking these sorts
of supplements and are concerned, discuss the
treatment with your doctor.
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