In recognition of today (Oct. 27) as World Osteoporosis Day, Lynn Mack, M.D., associate professor of internal medicine, answers a few questions about the condition.
What is osteoporosis?
It is the thinning of the bones, which as a result become weak and prone to facture.
What causes it?
There are lots of causes. The most common is hormonal changes in the body, such as those experienced by women after menopause. Medications such as prednisone also seem to increase risk for osteoporosis, as do nutrient malabsorbtion problems that are common in people with cystic fibrosis and those who have had part of their intestines removed.
Who is at risk?
For some reason, Caucasian women seem to be at particularly high risk. There seems to be a genetic component. Some people do everything right in terms of prevention measures and still develop osteoporosis.
What can be done to prevent it?
You can ensure you get proper amounts of calcium and vitamin D in your diet. If approved by their doctors, post-menopausal women can take estrogen boosting drugs that help offset the condition. If these drugs aren’t an option, there are several other medications and treatments available that can help.
Where can I learn more about osteoporosis?
The best resource probably is the National Osteoporosis Foundation website.