Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and more likely to break. Bone loss outpaces bone formation, leading to fragile bones. This increased brittleness puts people at higher risk for fractures, particularly in the hips, wrists, and spine.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), half of all Americans over age 50 have weak bones. Each year, approximately 2 million older Americans sustain fractures because of weak bones.
“The good news is, no matter how old we are, there are things we can do to prevent bone loss and even build new bone,” says Dr. David Gast, who leads a Bone Health Program at Northern Light AR Gould Hospital in Presque Isle. “We know a lot about bones, including the way they work, grow, rebuild, weaken, and break. Bone can either get stronger or weaker over time depending on how we take care of it.”
According to Dr. Gast, a bone health program helps prevent and treat bone loss, primarily osteoporosis, by reviewing calcium/vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercise, lifestyle, and medications. The goal is to prevent fractures, strengthen bones, improve posture, and increase balance to avoid falls.
Providers in bone health programs, such as Dr. Gast, work with the patient and their primary care provider to provide detailed consultations and long-term management of complex metabolic bone conditions. They review the patient’s risk factors, provide lab and bone density tests, and develop personalized treatment plans, including medication and lifestyle management.
What are my risks for osteoporosis?
- Gender: Women are at a higher risk than men.
- Age: As you get older, bone loss happens more quickly, and new bone growth is slower.
- Body type: Slender, thin-boned people are at a great risk because they have less bone to lose.
- Race: White and Asian women are at highest risk.
- Family history: Your risk may increase if one of your parents has a history of osteoporosis or hip fracture.
- Changes in hormones: Low levels of certain hormones, such as estrogen in women and testosterone in men, can increase your risk.
- Diet: A diet low in calcium, vitamin D, or protein can increase your risk.
- Medications: Long-term use of certain medications can also increase your risk.
- Lifestyle: Low physical activity, chronic heavy drinking, and/or smoking can all impact your risk.
Those at higher risk for osteoporosis should talk to their primary care provider to see if a Bone Health Program would be beneficial for them.