Osteoporosis 
 

Introduction

In the United States, fractures from osteoporosis are an important health 
problem. White women have a 16% chance of hip fracture; in contrast, 
the risk for African-American women is a much lower 6%. Risks for 
Asian American and Native American women are believed to be in 
between these two extremes. Hip fractures occur at an average age of 80 
and recovery is very difficult. Many women who survive the initial 
treatment are unable to live independently after a hip fracture. Vertebral 
fractures occur more frequently and at slightly younger ages and can 
also result in pain and limited mobility.

More About Bone Density

Both men and women begin to lose bone at about age 35 and lose 
steadily as they get older. Only about 15% of the bone lost by women is 
believed to be sensitive to estrogen. Estrogen-related bone loss occurs 
relatively quickly in the first few years after menopause. Bone density 
screening performed around this time can accurately measure bone 
density, but should not be relied upon to predict ultimate risk of fracture, 
which typically occurs 25-30 years later.

Bone density screening can more accurately predict the risk of fracture 
for white women in their 60's or older. The older models developed so far 
have been based on white women, and have not yet been shown to 
accurately predict risk in women of color. For example, Asian women are 
not as likely to fracture as are white women at the same bone density.

Do You Need Bone Density Screening?

The NWHN disagrees with recommendations to screen all 
post-menopausal women. Women who are considering bone density 
screening should first evaluate their risk of fracture. If risk is increased, 
modifiable risk factors like diet, exercise, and home safety should be 
addressed first. If a significant number of non-modifiable risks exist, 
particularly the use of bone-thinning drugs, family history, and loss of 
ovarian function before age 40, bone density screening may be useful to 
assess the precise level of risk faced by an individual woman.

Currently, "low" bone density is defined as levels significantly less than 
normal for healthy young adults, which results in nearly all older women 
eventually being diagnosed with osteoporosis. The NWHN disagrees with 
this definition and recommends that women ask for their bone density 
levels to be compared with women of the same age when predictions of 
risk are made.

Women of color are less likely to need bone density screening than are 
white women. If it is used, results should be interpreted cautiously.

How To Increase Bone Density or Slow Bone Loss Without Drugs 
 

* Exercise - weight bearing activity builds bone 
* Eat a high calcium diet 
* Avoid excessive protein, caffeine 
* Keep your ovaries as long as possible 
* Stop smoking

How To Prevent Fractures

* "Fall proof" your home 
* Avoid long-acting tranquilizers 
* Exercise - can improve balance 
* Avoid excessive alcohol

Credit: Women's Health Network