There have been a number of news reports over the last couple of days referring to recent research on the taking of calcium supplements and the risk of heart problems. The original research has been published in BMJ Online, and is freely accessible. 341 (291): c3691. (2010)
Effect of calcium supplements on risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events: meta-analysis, by Mark J Bolland et al, found that calcium supplements are associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction. The Editorial in the same edition of BMJ. concludes that "on the basis of the limited evidence available, patients with osteoporosis should generally not be treated with calcium supplements, either alone or combined with vitamin D, unless they are also receiving an effective treatment for osteoporosis for a recognised indication."
ABC Radio National's Health Report this morning included an interview with the authors of the research. You can download the transcript and podcast here.
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