Are your bones brittle? If they were, how would you know? (To men: this goes for you too)
Assessing osteoporosis risk requires more than a scan, which is why a thorough conversation with a doctor is essential
TL;DR
- Osteoporosis affects one in five men and one in three women over 50, increasing fracture risk.
- Fractures can lead to reduced mobility, residential care, and even death due to complications.
- Bone loss is also linked to cancer treatments that deplete sex hormones.
- Osteoporosis is under-recognized and undertreated, despite significant healthcare costs associated with fractures.
- A bone density scan (DEXA) combined with risk factors assesses fracture risk.
- Vitamin D and calcium supplements alone are not treatments for osteoporosis, though important for bone health.
- Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises are crucial for maintaining bone and functional fitness.
- Exercise can reduce cancer recurrence and improve overall health.
- Men are often unaware of their osteoporosis risk.
- Fracture liaison services improve care for fracture patients and prevent future fractures.
- A thorough conversation with a doctor is essential for assessing fracture risk beyond just a scan.