Osteoporosis

Wyeth Flyer

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that leads to an increased risk of fracture. In osteoporosis, bone mineral density (BMD) is reduced, bone microarchitecture is disrupted, and the amount and variety of non-collagenous proteins in bone is altered. Osteoporosis is most common in women after menopause but may also develop in elderly men. It may also occur in the presence of certain hormone disorders and other chronic disease states especially related to the parathyroid and thyroid gland.  It may also result from specific medications called glucocorticoids or more commonly steroids. Given its influence on the risk of fragility fractures, osteoporosis may significantly affect life expectancy and quality of life.

Treatment for osteoporosis involves lifestyle changes, preventing falls and when necessary medications (calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates and several others) that reduce bone loss and rebuild bone strength. A bone density test or Dexa Scan will measure the degree of bone thinning and generate a T score. This T score will determine to what degree your bones, (usually hip and vertebrae) are thinning and allow appropriate interventions to reduce the risk of fractures.

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