Fighting Bone Loss

  • It is estimated that 10 million Americans have osteoporosis. 80% of these are women. About one in two women over 50 years of age will suffer an osteoporotic fracture in her lifetime. Those are staggering numbers considering that the disease can be dramatically slowed if not prevented altogether. Diana Antoniucci, M.D.opens new window of Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation shares these important facts, below. 

    In women, osteoporosis commonly starts after menopause. Estrogen helps maintain good bone density. But as estrogen levels drop after menopause, bone breakdown increases, contributing to the development of osteoporosis. 

    Simply put, osteoporosis is the weakening of bone due to a decrease in bone density. Although any bone can be affected by the disease, the spine and hips are the greatest concern because fractures of either of these can lead to significant pain, temporary or permanent disability, and decreased function. This is why preventing osteoporosis is so important.

  • Means of Preventing Osteoporosis

    • Nutrition: Post menopausal women should consume 1,000 mg of calcium and between 800-1000 international units of Vitamin D every day.
    • Exercise: Weight-bearing exercises like jogging, hiking and running can help maintain bone density.
    • Avoid Smoking/Drinking: Smoking cigarettes and/or regularly drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.
    • Regular Screening: It is recommended that women undergo their first bone density measurement at age 65 years. Follow-up evaluations should be performed as recommended by a physician.

    Proper nutrition and exercise are essential in maintaining bone density. During and after menopause, women should ensure that their diet includes the recommended amounts of calcium and Vitamin D, above. Together, these nutrients can maintain healthier bone. Weight-bearing exercises like running, jogging, hiking, etc. will also help maintain normal bone density and good strength and balance, which help prevent falls over time.

  • Therapy to Treat Osteoporosis

  • There are a number of medications that can be used to treat osteoporosis and prevent fractures. The type of medication should be determined by your physician based on your specific bone density and fracture history.

    Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed class of drugs to treat osteoporosis. These medications are available in weekly and monthly pill doses. They are also available as a once-a-year infusion. Bisphosphonates have been proven to decrease the risk of fracture significantly.
    (courtesy: Sutter Health Newsletter)

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