USPSTF: Routine Vitamin D Screening Unsupported

There is not enough evidence that vitamin D screening is beneficial in routine practice and therefore it can't be recommended, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

On the other hand, it does not apply to patients with certain conditions such as bone, endocrine, and autoimmune disorders, "because vitamin D testing in these populations could be considered management of a condition rather than general screening."

The USPSTF has previously recommended against daily supplementation with 400 IU or less of vitamin D3 and 1,000 mg of calcium carbonate to prevent fracture in postmenopausal women, citing insufficient evidence. It does, however, recommend vitamin D supplementation in adults ages 65 and older who are at risk for falls.

The Institute of Medicine recommends a daily intake of 600 IU for adults, and 800 IU for those over age 70.