Screening and treatment key to fracture prevention
Osteoporosis often goes unnoticed until a fracture, making early detection critical to protecting bone health.Media Contact: Colleen Steelquist - csteelqu@uw.edu
The majority of adults in the United States age 50 and older either have osteoporosis or are at increased risk of developing it, but many do not learn they have the disease until they suffer a broken bone.
Dr. Susan Ott, a physician at the UW Medicine Metabolic Bone Disease Clinic, says earlier screening and treatment of the bone-weakening condition could help.
“As few as 15% of people who already broke their hip are leaving the hospital and not getting any follow-up or treatment for their osteoporosis that caused the fracture, which puts them at high risk of breaking the other side. This could be prevented,” she said.
Ott recommends women receive bone density screening at menopause, when rapid bone loss occurs, rather than waiting until their 60s. Early testing allows physicians to identify those at highest risk and begin preventive treatment before significant bone loss occurs. She also notes that men develop osteoporosis and should be screened and treated when appropriate.
Although a healthy diet, weight-bearing exercise, adequate protein, calcium-rich foods and vitamin D all support bone health, Ott emphasizes they are not enough to treat osteoporosis. Early detection, appropriate medication and ongoing follow-up remain the most effective ways to prevent fractures.
Download video soundbites and other broadcast-quality resources with Ott. Read our accompanying Noteworthy item with Ott.