To the Editor: Dr Robinson1 wrote a commentary on an abstract from Archives of Dermatology, which discussed sun exposure patterns, sunscreen use, and vitamin D. The Commentary provided insight into behavioral patterns and concern for the increasing incidence of skin cancer, but did not convey the scope of vitamin D deficiency in developed countries, the widespread lack of fundamental knowledge about this problem in the health care community, or the need for substantially more investigation about this basic human need.
Vitamin D deficiency remains poorly defined.2 Current estimates are that older individuals typically require at least 1300 IU/d of cholecalciferol and that traditional recommendations are inadequate for all ages.3 Supplementation guidelines for vitamin D were increased earlier this year to 1000 IU/d for persons older than 70 years.4 Numerous questions remain unanswered not just about optimal dosing but about the fundamental effects of vitamin D on multiple organ systems.5
Financial Disclosures: Dr Grote has designed “Maximum D3,” a vitamin D capsule. A patent application is pending.
This letter was shown to Dr Robinson, who declined to reply.—ED
Country-Specific Mortality and Growth Failure in Infancy and Yound Children and Association With Material Stature
Use interactive graphics and maps to view and sort country-specific infant and early dhildhood mortality and growth failure data and their association with maternal
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