The Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) has joined calls from Which? for consumers to carefully consider the accuracy and suitability of rapid DIY vitamin D tests that are sold on the high street.
The Which? investigation found that, when a person with a normal level of vitamin D took five different self-test kits, they came out with three different results.
This discrepancy between test results suggests that vitamin D self-tests may not be useful for consumers and are best avoided for making significant decisions about your own health. The College recommends that anybody with serious health concerns should seek advice from a medical professional, particularly before taking vitamin D supplements.
Dr Bernie Croal, President of the Royal College of Pathologists, said: “I was not surprised by the results, as by their nature, a finger prick test done at home could not mirror the very precise procedures and quality control that takes place after a blood test, ordered by a GP, is analysed in a central laboratory. This may create a population of patients who will then go to their GP, who will then feel obliged to repeat the testing, leading to a knock-on effect for the NHS.”
Dr Bernie Croal continued: “Vitamin D testing can lead to harm. People might also be tempted to buy expensive supplements needlessly. If people take vitamin D tablets and the dose is too high, that can lead to high calcium levels in the blood with an increased risk of kidney stones. We are pleased that the MHRA will assess the evidence underpinning these tests and recommend withdrawal from sale if they do not meet appropriate clinical and scientific guidelines.”
RCPath will publish public-facing guidance for consumers on health self-test kits in the new year.