Vitamin D Screening in Crohn's Disease: a current practice survey

Introduction: It is generally recognised that patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) are at high risk of developing vitamin D deficiency with the highest prevalence often reported in those with Crohn’s Disease (CD). Currently there is no UK national recommendation to monitor vitamin D levels in patients with CD. However, there is continued interest in the detection and treatment of vitamin D deficiency as part of CD management.
Objective: Identify self-reported practice and influences on practice among British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG)-IBD section members in screening for and treatment of vitamin D deficiency in people with CD.
Method: A web-based survey was distributed via email by the BSG communications team to members of the IBD section (n=985).
Results: Respondents n=64,, 83% thought that vitamin D levels should be checked routinely in patients with CD. Screening practice: most often annually and in those with small bowel CD (55%) or a history of previous surgery related to CD (56%). Treatments: Increased sunlight exposure (mean = 21, SD = 15 +215) and dietary advice (mean = 22, SD = 14 +196) were most often recommended for those with mild/moderate deficiency. Oral supplementation (mean = 14,SD = 13 +167) was most often recommended for those with moderate/severe deficiency. Factors most likely to influence practice: better clinical evidence (n = 25), clear guidance (n= 23), patient request( n = 23).
Conclusion: There continues to be a need for well conducted RCTs, in patients with identified vitamin D deficiency, to inform clinical practice and national guidance.