Bone Health and Osteoporosis Karlyn Armbruster M.D. Women’s Health Expo Sleepy Eye Medical Center September 28, 2013

What is Osteoporosis? Osteoporosis means “porous bone” Weakening of the bones Bone loss happens with age It is more rapid after menopause for women More common in women, but men can get it too

What is Osteoporosis? Fragile bones break easily Fractures of the hip, wrists, and spine are common May cause severe pain Compression fractures of the spine can cause a person to lose height and become stooped or hunched

Should you worry? Osteoporosis is common! About 9 million Americans have osteoporosis, and an estimated 48 million have low bone density* (osteopenia) Nearly 60% of adults older than 50 are at risk of breaking a bone* *National Osteoporosis Foundation

Are you at risk? Here are some conditions which might increase the risk for developing fragile bones: Female sex Age greater than 50 Postmenopausal Also, surgical removal of the ovaries Family history of broken bones Low body weight Inactive lifestyle Diet low in calcium and vitamin D Smoking Excessive alcohol use Certain medications and diseases

Making a diagnosis DEXA Scan = Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry Measures the density of the bones at specific sites in the body – the hip and spine. Non-invasive, painless. Takes less than 15 minutes. Uses very little radiation. The results are reported using “T-Scores” The “T-score” will help your doctor understand your risk of breaking a bone and recommend medications that can help protect you from losing more bone or rebuild bone

Do you need a DEXA Scan? Women age 65 or older Men age 70 or older If you break a bone after age 50 Women of menopausal age with certain risk factors Height loss of ½ inch or more in 1 year Total height loss of 1 ½ inches or more If you are already taking a medication for osteoporosis, you may need a DEXA scan every 1-2 years

Should you take a medication? People without osteoporosis or osteopenia do not need to take a prescription medication People with osteopenia may need a medication if they have certain risk factors People with osteoporosis should consider taking an osteoporosis medication

Vitamin D and Calcium Women under age 50: Vitamin D and calcium play an important role in building bones and keeping them strong Women under age 50: Calcium 1000mg per day Vitamin D 400-800IU per day Women age 50 and older: Calcium 1200mg per day Vitamin D 1000IU per day

How can you prevent osteoporosis? Take Calcium and Vitamin D supplements and eat a diet high in these nutrients Get regular exercise Maintain a healthy weight Stop smoking! Talk to Sue Ahlness! Avoid excessive alcohol use

Resources USPSTF National Osteoporosis Foundation www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org National Osteoporosis Foundation www.nof.org