Importance of Vitamin D to Postmenopausal Women’s Health

Abstract Postmenopausal women have a significantly higher incidence and rate of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis compared with the general population. Current scientific evidence has shown that, in addition to calcium homeostasis, vitamin D has protective properties against breast neoplasms and cardiovascular risks and promotes bone health. Acknowledging these attributes of vitamin D will help not only to expand the understanding of pathophysiology of chronic conditions but also encourage primary care clinicians to provide vitamin D screening, supplementation, and education to prevent debilitating conditions in postmenopausal women.