House Calls

Osteoporosis is a common problem that causes bones to become thin (osteopenic) and at higher risk of becoming broken or fractured.

Osteoporosis affects both men and women, but women are at a higher risk, especially after menopause, due to lower estrogen levels, a female hormone that helps to maintain bone mass.

It is important for people to be aware of ways they can prevent osteoporosis. Those at high risk need prompt diagnosis of bone loss so certain therapies can be started to slow further loss of bone or increase bone density.

How to prevent osteoporosis

Both men and women can help prevent osteoporosis by targeting diet, exercise, and stopping smoking.

Diet

Premenopausal women and men should consume at least 1000 mg of calcium per day (food, drink, or by taking supplements). If they are not taking estrogen therapies, postmenopausal women should consume 1500 mg of calcium per day. The main sources of calcium include dairy products, such as milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, and green vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli. A quick way to estimate dietary calcium intake is to multiply the number of dairy servings consumed each day by 300 mg (Example: 8oz of yogurt (1 serving) x 300mg). Some people may need calcium supplements which can be purchased at any pharmacy. Experts also recommend that people take 800 International Units (IU) of vitamin D each day to help reduce bone loss. Again, milk is a main source of vitamin D, and some people may choose to take a Vitamin D supplement.

Exercise

Weight-bearing exercises can improve bone mass in premenopausal women and help to maintain bone density for women after menopause. Most experts recommend exercising for at least 30 minutes three times per week.

Smoking

Smoking is known to speed up bone loss. This is another good reason to quit!

Screening for osteoporosis

A Bone Mineral Density Test may be ordered by a health care provider to screen for osteoporosis. Most premenopausal women and men do not need screening. The decision to order a BMD test will depend on risk factors.

A few examples of people who definitely need to be screened include all women over 65 years of age, anyone who has been on a steroid medication, such as Prednisone, for three or more months, or if osteopenia (early bone loss) is found on a routine X-ray, or women with early menopause (before age 45). Examples of those who may need screening include those with rheumatoid arthritis, excessive alcohol use, excessive caffeine intake, smokers, and low calcium intake in their diets. Discuss with your health care provider if you need a BMD test.

Summary

Osteoporosis can affect men and women. It is important to prevent bone loss early. People with osteoporosis are at greater risk for serious injuries especially after falling or breaking a bone. Discuss screening with your health care provider. Early diagnosis is important to ensure treatment is started to prevent further bone loss (More information at: www.osteoporosis.ca).

'House Calls' is a series of health related topics and is intended as general information only. Anyone with a specific health concern should consult a health care provider. Dr. Young is a family physician practicing in Springdale, NL. If you would like to suggest a topic to be covered, send an email to: tkyoung@xplornet.com; www.mydoctor.ca/drtoddyoung