Are You at Risk for Osteoporosis?

November 10, 1:53 AMSF Sexual Health ExaminerJennifer Gunter

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AP Photo/The News & Observer, Takaaki Iwabu

Osteoporosis is thinning of the bones. It can lead to fractures, which are painful, disabling, and, in the case of hip fractures, potentially fatal.

Osteoporosis affects approximately 10 million Americans – 50% of women over the age of 50 are affected, as are 25% of men. The cost of osteoporosis related fractures is more than $10 billion each year. Prevention of osteoporosis would have a significant impact on the cost of health care, especially as the population continues to age.

Any one can get osteoporosis; however, certain factors increase your risk, such as:

• Genetic factors. If your mother or father had osteoporosis your risk increases.
• Menopause. Estrogen is protective against bone loss, so the risk of osteoporosis increases significant for post-menopausal women who do not take hormone replacement therapy. Premature menopause further increases the risk.
• Low intake of vitamin D and calcium, which are important for bone health. Deficiencies in these hormones can weaken bones.
• Certain medications, such as steroids, heparin, and chemotherapy drugs.
• Medical conditions, such a thyroid abnormalities, anorexia nervosa, and kidney disease.
• Lifestyle factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of weight bearing exercise.

Osteoporosis does not cause symptoms until a fracture occurs - when it is too late. Screening is recommended because early treatment can prevent fractures. Screening is performed with a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. The results are recorded as a T score. Results between -1 and 1 are normal. A T score of -1 to -2.5 indicates the bones are thinning and a T score of less than -2.5 is osteoporosis.

 What can I do to protect my bones?

• Get moving
• Quit tobacco and alcohol
• Take a calcium and vitamin D3 replacement. Women (and men) younger than 50 should receive 1,000 mg of calcium and 400-800 IU of vitamin D3 a day and post-menopausal women should take 1,200-1,500 mg of calcium and 800-1,000 IU of vitamin D3 a day. 
• Get a screened. All women over the age of 65 should have a DEXA scan and screening should start at age 60 for women with risk factors.

Osteoporosis prevention is effective and inexpensive - a wise investment in your future.

 For more info: on women's health care

Remember, this article does not represent individual medical advice.