Podcast
Questions and Answers
What factor is considered the most powerful risk factor for future fractures in individuals over 50?
What factor is considered the most powerful risk factor for future fractures in individuals over 50?
Which intervention can help prevent falls in at-risk patients?
Which intervention can help prevent falls in at-risk patients?
What is the recommended action after a successful treatment of a fracture?
What is the recommended action after a successful treatment of a fracture?
Which of the following is NOT a strategy to improve bone health?
Which of the following is NOT a strategy to improve bone health?
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What are patients being treated for low BMD at high risk of?
What are patients being treated for low BMD at high risk of?
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What is a significant consequence of a hip fracture in older adults?
What is a significant consequence of a hip fracture in older adults?
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At what age do people typically begin to lose bone mass?
At what age do people typically begin to lose bone mass?
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Which of the following is considered a non-modifiable risk factor for osteoporosis?
Which of the following is considered a non-modifiable risk factor for osteoporosis?
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Which of the following is a FDA-approved bisphosphonate for osteoporosis treatment?
Which of the following is a FDA-approved bisphosphonate for osteoporosis treatment?
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Which of these conditions can be a modifiable risk factor for weak bones?
Which of these conditions can be a modifiable risk factor for weak bones?
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What is the main mechanism of action for bisphosphonates?
What is the main mechanism of action for bisphosphonates?
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What is a common fracture site for individuals with weak bones?
What is a common fracture site for individuals with weak bones?
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For whom are bisphosphonates FDA-approved for increasing bone mass?
For whom are bisphosphonates FDA-approved for increasing bone mass?
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How is osteoporosis primarily diagnosed?
How is osteoporosis primarily diagnosed?
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How should bisphosphonates be taken for optimal absorption?
How should bisphosphonates be taken for optimal absorption?
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What is a symptom that may indicate the presence of osteoporosis?
What is a symptom that may indicate the presence of osteoporosis?
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Which medication is associated with increased risk for osteoporosis?
Which medication is associated with increased risk for osteoporosis?
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What is a common clinical benefit of bisphosphonates in postmenopausal women?
What is a common clinical benefit of bisphosphonates in postmenopausal women?
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What method is commonly used to measure Bone Mineral Density?
What method is commonly used to measure Bone Mineral Density?
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Which of the following blood tests is NOT typically done to investigate bone health?
Which of the following blood tests is NOT typically done to investigate bone health?
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Who is advised to have a Bone Density Test according to current guidelines?
Who is advised to have a Bone Density Test according to current guidelines?
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What does a T-score of -2.5 indicate?
What does a T-score of -2.5 indicate?
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What criterion indicates treatment for osteoporosis is cost-effective?
What criterion indicates treatment for osteoporosis is cost-effective?
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Which hormone levels are important for evaluating bone turnover?
Which hormone levels are important for evaluating bone turnover?
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Which method can detect thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures?
Which method can detect thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures?
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What is the primary outcome of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX)?
What is the primary outcome of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX)?
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What is one of the patient care goals related to fractures?
What is one of the patient care goals related to fractures?
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Which step focuses on improving muscle strength and balance?
Which step focuses on improving muscle strength and balance?
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What type of exercise is considered weight-bearing?
What type of exercise is considered weight-bearing?
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What is an appropriate treatment for vitamin D deficiency?
What is an appropriate treatment for vitamin D deficiency?
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Which dietary source is high in vitamin D?
Which dietary source is high in vitamin D?
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Why is vitamin D important for older adults?
Why is vitamin D important for older adults?
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What should individuals talk to their doctor about regarding bone health?
What should individuals talk to their doctor about regarding bone health?
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What does routine bone health monitoring involve?
What does routine bone health monitoring involve?
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What is one of the FDA-approved uses of bisphosphonates?
What is one of the FDA-approved uses of bisphosphonates?
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What mechanism of action do bisphosphonates primarily employ?
What mechanism of action do bisphosphonates primarily employ?
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How should a patient properly take bisphosphonates for optimal absorption?
How should a patient properly take bisphosphonates for optimal absorption?
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Which of the following is NOT an example of a bisphosphonate medication?
Which of the following is NOT an example of a bisphosphonate medication?
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What is a key clinical benefit of bisphosphonates in osteoporosis treatment?
What is a key clinical benefit of bisphosphonates in osteoporosis treatment?
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What is a critical component in the management of patients who have had a fracture after age 50?
What is a critical component in the management of patients who have had a fracture after age 50?
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Which of the following strategies is aimed at reducing the risk of falls in at-risk patients?
Which of the following strategies is aimed at reducing the risk of falls in at-risk patients?
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Which aspect is crucial for enhancing the treatment of patients with osteoporosis?
Which aspect is crucial for enhancing the treatment of patients with osteoporosis?
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What are patients at high risk of if their Bone Mineral Density (BMD) remains low despite treatment?
What are patients at high risk of if their Bone Mineral Density (BMD) remains low despite treatment?
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Which of the following is an essential step in fall prevention for individuals at risk?
Which of the following is an essential step in fall prevention for individuals at risk?
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What is the recommended duration for a drug holiday after treatment with bisphosphonates for lower risk patients?
What is the recommended duration for a drug holiday after treatment with bisphosphonates for lower risk patients?
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What side effect is associated with intravenous bisphosphonates like zoledronic acid?
What side effect is associated with intravenous bisphosphonates like zoledronic acid?
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How should bisphosphonates ideally be taken to ensure optimal absorption?
How should bisphosphonates ideally be taken to ensure optimal absorption?
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What is the typical administration route for zoledronic acid for osteoporosis treatment?
What is the typical administration route for zoledronic acid for osteoporosis treatment?
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What may be a benefit of bisphosphonates despite concerns about long-term treatment?
What may be a benefit of bisphosphonates despite concerns about long-term treatment?
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Which of the following adverse effects is rare with bisphosphonate use?
Which of the following adverse effects is rare with bisphosphonate use?
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For which of the following patients may intravenous bisphosphonates be ideal?
For which of the following patients may intravenous bisphosphonates be ideal?
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What additional supplementation is recommended for patients taking bisphosphonates?
What additional supplementation is recommended for patients taking bisphosphonates?
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What measurement does a DEXA scan primarily assess?
What measurement does a DEXA scan primarily assess?
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What T-score range indicates osteopenia?
What T-score range indicates osteopenia?
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Which group is recommended to have Bone Density Tests?
Which group is recommended to have Bone Density Tests?
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Which investigation is NOT typically part of assessing bone health?
Which investigation is NOT typically part of assessing bone health?
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When does treatment for osteoporosis become cost-effective according to fracture risk?
When does treatment for osteoporosis become cost-effective according to fracture risk?
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What is the primary purpose of the FRAX tool?
What is the primary purpose of the FRAX tool?
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What does a T-score of -2.5 indicate?
What does a T-score of -2.5 indicate?
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Which marker is crucial for assessing bone turnover?
Which marker is crucial for assessing bone turnover?
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What is the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for individuals aged 50 and above?
What is the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for individuals aged 50 and above?
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Which factor does NOT affect the amount of vitamin D produced in the body?
Which factor does NOT affect the amount of vitamin D produced in the body?
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Calcium carbonate requires what to dissolve and be absorbed effectively?
Calcium carbonate requires what to dissolve and be absorbed effectively?
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Why might individuals aged 50 and over require supplementation of vitamin D?
Why might individuals aged 50 and over require supplementation of vitamin D?
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What is the maximum combined daily total of vitamin D recommended from food and supplements?
What is the maximum combined daily total of vitamin D recommended from food and supplements?
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Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between calcium and vitamin D absorption?
Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between calcium and vitamin D absorption?
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When taking calcium citrate, when can it be consumed?
When taking calcium citrate, when can it be consumed?
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What should be a consideration when choosing a calcium supplement?
What should be a consideration when choosing a calcium supplement?
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Which of the following conditions is NOT treated with bisphosphonates?
Which of the following conditions is NOT treated with bisphosphonates?
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What is the primary effect of bisphosphonates on osteoclasts?
What is the primary effect of bisphosphonates on osteoclasts?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) used in osteoporosis treatment?
Which of the following is a characteristic of Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) used in osteoporosis treatment?
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Which of the following bisphosphonates is specifically indicated for increasing bone mass in men?
Which of the following bisphosphonates is specifically indicated for increasing bone mass in men?
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What is the recommended method for taking bisphosphonates to ensure optimal absorption?
What is the recommended method for taking bisphosphonates to ensure optimal absorption?
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What is a common symptom that may suggest the presence of osteoporosis in an individual?
What is a common symptom that may suggest the presence of osteoporosis in an individual?
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Which of the following risk factors is considered non-modifiable?
Which of the following risk factors is considered non-modifiable?
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How is osteoporosis primarily diagnosed?
How is osteoporosis primarily diagnosed?
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Which condition is a medical issue linked to increased risk for weak bones?
Which condition is a medical issue linked to increased risk for weak bones?
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What defines a fragility fracture?
What defines a fragility fracture?
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Which medication is known to increase the risk of osteoporosis?
Which medication is known to increase the risk of osteoporosis?
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What happens to bone mass in women after menopause?
What happens to bone mass in women after menopause?
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Which of the following factors contributes to a sedentary lifestyle?
Which of the following factors contributes to a sedentary lifestyle?
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What is a significant contributor to the risk of experiencing a second fracture following an initial fracture event for individuals over 50?
What is a significant contributor to the risk of experiencing a second fracture following an initial fracture event for individuals over 50?
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Which strategy is specifically designed to enhance safety within the home environment for fall prevention?
Which strategy is specifically designed to enhance safety within the home environment for fall prevention?
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In patients with low Bone Mineral Density (BMD), what is a potential benefit of longer treatment beyond initial osteoporosis management?
In patients with low Bone Mineral Density (BMD), what is a potential benefit of longer treatment beyond initial osteoporosis management?
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What is a key factor in assessing bone health and treatment strategies for at-risk patients?
What is a key factor in assessing bone health and treatment strategies for at-risk patients?
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Which of the following actions should be prioritized to enhance the treatment and management of osteoporosis?
Which of the following actions should be prioritized to enhance the treatment and management of osteoporosis?
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What is a primary benefit of engaging in regular weight-bearing exercises?
What is a primary benefit of engaging in regular weight-bearing exercises?
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Which food source is known for being high in vitamin D?
Which food source is known for being high in vitamin D?
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What is the recommended treatment protocol for vitamin D deficiency in older adults?
What is the recommended treatment protocol for vitamin D deficiency in older adults?
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How does vitamin D contribute to the reduction of fall risk?
How does vitamin D contribute to the reduction of fall risk?
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What is a misconception regarding daily calcium and vitamin D intake?
What is a misconception regarding daily calcium and vitamin D intake?
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Which of the following activities is specifically classified as a weight-bearing exercise?
Which of the following activities is specifically classified as a weight-bearing exercise?
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What is an appropriate method to assess calcium and vitamin D intake?
What is an appropriate method to assess calcium and vitamin D intake?
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Which preventive step is crucial for maintaining bone health?
Which preventive step is crucial for maintaining bone health?
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What is the recommended minimum duration for a drug holiday after 10 years of bisphosphonate treatment in higher risk patients?
What is the recommended minimum duration for a drug holiday after 10 years of bisphosphonate treatment in higher risk patients?
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Which adverse effect is most commonly associated with the use of bisphosphonates?
Which adverse effect is most commonly associated with the use of bisphosphonates?
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What is the proper way to administer a bisphosphonate tablet for optimal absorption?
What is the proper way to administer a bisphosphonate tablet for optimal absorption?
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What is the primary route of administration for zoledronic acid used in osteoporosis treatment?
What is the primary route of administration for zoledronic acid used in osteoporosis treatment?
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How long can bisphosphonates be safely administered according to the provided information?
How long can bisphosphonates be safely administered according to the provided information?
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Which of the following is a recommended supplement for patients taking bisphosphonates?
Which of the following is a recommended supplement for patients taking bisphosphonates?
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Which gastrointestinal side effect is associated with bisphosphonates?
Which gastrointestinal side effect is associated with bisphosphonates?
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What potential benefit exists from the long-term retention of bisphosphonates in bone?
What potential benefit exists from the long-term retention of bisphosphonates in bone?
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Study Notes
Osteoporosis and Bone Health
- Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened and brittle bones, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Fractures in individuals with osteoporosis are more likely to occur in the wrist, spine, and hip.
- Risk factors for osteoporosis can be classified as modifiable and non-modifiable.
- Modifiable risk factors can be altered through changes in lifestyle and habits.
- Non-modifiable risk factors cannot be changed.
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Five simple steps for bone health and osteoporosis prevention include:
- Getting adequate daily intake of calcium and vitamin D.
- Engaging in regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises.
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Regularly discussing bone health with a healthcare professional.
- Getting a bone density test and taking appropriate medications as recommended.
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Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health, and deficiency can contribute to osteoporosis.
- Adequate vitamin D levels can help reduce fall risk by improving muscle function.
- Main dietary sources of vitamin D include:
- Fortified milk
- Fortified cereals
- Cold saltwater fish
- Calcium and vitamin/mineral supplements
- Sunlight exposure is a natural source of vitamin D production in the skin.
Diagnosis and Assessment of Osteoporosis
-
Diagnosis of osteoporosis is primarily based on:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) measurement using a DEXA scan
- History of fragility fractures regardless of BMD.
- BMD measurement with DEXA scan determines bone density at the hip and lumbar spine.
-
WHO criteria define osteoporosis based on T-score, which compares individual BMD to young adult values.
- T-score above -1.0 indicates normal bone density.
- T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 indicates low bone mass (osteopenia).
- T-score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.
- Fracture prediction tools such as FRAX can estimate the 10-year risk of major osteoporotic fractures and hip fractures.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
-
Treatment of osteoporosis aims to:
- Identify patients at risk of fractures.
- Reduce the incidence of fractures.
- Maintain quality of life.
-
Treatment options for osteoporosis include:
- Lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.
- Medications such as bisphosphonates, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone (PTH), selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), and estrogen/hormone therapy (ET/HT).
-
Bisphosphonates are a class of drugs that reduce bone resorption and increase bone density.
- They are FDA-approved for various indications, including prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in different populations.
- Secondary fracture prevention is crucial after a fracture in people over 50, as it is a strong predictor of future fractures.
-
Fall prevention is essential, especially in elderly individuals, and includes measures such as:
- Improving home safety by removing tripping hazards.
- Engaging in physical therapy for balance and strength.
- Avoiding medications that affect alertness and balance.
Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan
- DEXA Scan measures bone mineral density at the hip and lumbar spine
Investigations for Possible Causes
- Full blood count is used to check for Anemia
- Bone profile checks for calcium and alkaline phosphate levels
- Vitamin D levels are important to assess
- Parathyroid hormone levels are important for bone turnover
- Thyroid function tests are helpful as hyperthyroidism can lead to osteoporosis
- Cortisol levels can be indicative of exogenous steroids
Plain Film X-Rays for Lumbar Spine
- Used to assess for thoracic and lumbar vertebral fractures
Bone Density Test Recommendations
- Women aged 65 and above, and men aged 70 and above should have a bone density test
- Younger postmenopausal women and men ages 50-69 with clinical risk factors should be tested
- Adults who have experienced a fracture after 50 should undergo a bone density test
Fracture Prediction Tools
- The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) can calculate the 10-year probability of a major osteoporotic fracture and hip fracture
- Treatment becomes cost-effective when the 10-year fracture risk is over 4%
WHO Criteria for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
- The T-score compares an individual's BMD with the mean value for young adults, expressed in standard deviation scores
- Normal: T-score above -1.0
- Low bone Mass (osteopenia): T-score between -1.0 and -2.5
- Osteoporosis: T-score below -2.5
Vitamin D Intake
- Vitamin D intake should be 800 - 1000 IU per day, with supplementation necessary for individuals aged 50 and above
- Vitamin D intake can be obtained through sun exposure (10-15 minutes twice a week) but clothing, sunscreen and pollution reduce vitamin D production
Calcium Requirements for Individuals Over 50
- Calcium intake should be at least 1,200 mg per day for individuals over 50
Calcium Supplements
- Calcium carbonate needs stomach acid for absorption
- Calcium citrate does not require stomach acid for absorption, making it more suitable for individuals with less stomach acid
Vitamin D's Role in Calcium Absorption
- Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption
- Calcium and Vitamin D do not need to be consumed simultaneously to benefit from enhanced calcium absorption
FDA-Approved Medications for Osteoporosis
- Bisphosphonates:
- Alendronate, Alendronate plus D (Fosamax, Fosamax Plus D)
- Rideosronate, Risedronate with Calcium (Actonel)
- Ibandronate (Boniva)
- Calcitonin (Miacalcin, Fortical, Calcimar)
- Parathyroid Hormone (PTH(1-34), Teriparatide) (Forteo)
- Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Raloxifene (Evista)
- Estrogen/Hormone Therapy (ET/HT): Premarin, Estrace, Prempro
Bisphosphonates - Antiresorptive Agents
- FDA-approved for:
- prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
- treatment for increasing bone mass in men with osteoporosis
- treatment for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
- treatment for Paget's Disease of bone
- They reduce osteoclastic activity and bone resorption by binding bone mineral, being absorbed by osteoclasts, inducing apoptosis and suppressing resorption
Clinical Benefit of Bisphosphonates
- 3 years of bisphosphonate treatment in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis show relative risk reduction for fractures:
- Vertebrae: significant reduction
- Hip: significant reduction
Bisphosphonates - Administration
- Must be taken at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with water only.
- Should only be taken upon waking up
- Should be taken with a full glass of water
- Patients should remain upright (walking, standing, or sitting) for at least 30 minutes (for monthly ibandronate, 60 minutes)
- Should supplement with calcium and Vitamin D if dietary intake is inadequate
Bisphosphonates - Adverse Effects
- Hypocalcemia
- Hypophosphatemia
- Musculoskeletal pain, crams (FDA warning)
- Gastrointestinal:
- Abdominal pain
- Acid reflux
- Dyspepsia
- Esophageal ulcer
- Gastritis
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw (IV bisphosphonates)
- Visual disturbances (rare)
Zolendronic Acid (Reclast, Aclasta)
- Approved for treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
- Single 5 mg infusion given IV over 15 minutes, once yearly
- Should still supplement with calcium and vitamin D
- May be ideal for those with GI contraindications to oral formulations
Duration of Bisphosphonate Treatment
- Bisphosphonates have a long residence time in bone
- Long-term treatment raises questions about safety concerns
- It is unclear if long-term treatment leads to a reservoir of the drug in bone, providing a continuing benefit after therapy is stopped
Recommended Duration of Bisphosphonate Treatment
- 5-10 years appears to be safe for most patients
- Risk assessment is important for determining the length of treatment:
- Lower risk: drug holiday after 3-5 years
- Higher risk: drug holiday after 10 years
- Factors to consider for treatment length:
- Adherence to medication
- Drug pharmacokinetics
- Underlying disorders that need to be addressed
Secondary Fracture Prevention
- A fracture is a sentinel event
- A fracture in a person over 50 is a significant risk factor for a future fracture
- Many high-risk patients receive successful fracture treatment but do not receive subsequent medical assessments and treatment to prevent further fractures
Fall Prevention
- Improve lighting in the home
- Remove loose rugs
- Install grab bars near bathtubs, toilets, and stairways
- Consider a formal home safety evaluation
- Incorporate physical therapy for core strength and balance
- Avoid medication that can affect alertness and balance
- Get an assistive device evaluation and training
Take Home Message
- Clinicians should improve their ability to assess risk factors for osteoporosis and apply evidence-based screening recommendations to at-risk patients
- Doctors should develop strategies to improve the treatment of patients with osteoporosis
- Clinicians should utilize tools and information (patient education materials and system-based approaches) to facilitate improved assessment and care for patients with osteoporosis
Bone Health & Osteoporosis
- Hip fractures can lead to nursing home placement for 1 in 5 people within a year
- Some people with hip fractures may never walk again
- The most common breaks in weak bones are in the wrist, spine, and hip
- People start to lose bone mass after their mid-30s, with women losing bone mass faster after menopause
- There are modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for weak bones
- Modifiable risk factors include diet, smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, and medical conditions
- Non-modifiable risk factors include family history of osteoporosis, age, small body build, and medical conditions
Osteoporosis Diagnosis
- Osteoporosis is diagnosed by bone mineral density tests and/or a history of fragility fractures
- Fragility fractures can happen from a fall from standing height or less
- Signs of osteoporosis include loss of height, kyphosis (Dowager's hump), and back pain on palpation.
Patient Care Goals
- The main goals of osteoporosis management are to identify patients at risk for fractures, reduce the incidence of fractures, and maintain quality of life
Osteoporosis Prevention
- Five simple steps to bone health and osteoporosis prevention:
- Get your daily recommended amount of calcium and Vitamin D
- Be physically active everyday
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Talk to your doctor about bone health
- Have a bone density test and consider taking medication if appropriate
Vitamin D
- Vitamin D is manufactured in the skin from sunlight exposure
- Dietary sources of vitamin D include fortified milk, fortified cereals, cold saltwater fish, and supplements
- Vitamin D may reduce fracture risk through improved muscle function and reduced fall risk
- Maintaining a 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 level greater than 40 ng/mL is beneficial for older adults
- Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in older adults and may require treatment with 50,000 IU of Vitamin D weekly for 6-8 weeks, followed by monthly therapy as needed
Osteoporosis Medications
- FDA-approved medications for osteoporosis include:
- Bisphosphonates
- Calcitonin
- Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)
- Estrogen/Hormone therapy (ET/HT)
Bisphosphonates
- Bisphosphonates are antiresorptive agents that reduce osteoclastic activity and bone resorption by binding bone mineral
- Bisphosphonates can prevent and treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, men with osteoporosis, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, and Paget’s disease of bone
- These medications must be taken on an empty stomach with water and patients should remain upright for 30-60 minutes after taking them
- Common side effects include hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, musculoskeletal pain, gastrointestinal issues, osteonecrosis of the jaw, and visual disturbances
Zolendronic Acid (Reclast®/Aclasta®)
- A single 5mg infusion given IV once yearly
- May be ideal for patients with gastrointestinal contraindications to oral bisphosphonate formulations
Bisphosphonate Treatment Duration
- Bisphosphonates have a long residence time in bone
- 5-10 years of treatment appears safe for most patients
- Drug holiday assessment should be considered after 3-5 years for lower risk patients and after 10 years for higher risk patients
Secondary Fracture Prevention
- A fracture is a sentinel event indicating high risk of future fractures
- High-risk patients often have fractures successfully treated, but do not receive further assessment and treatment to prevent future fractures
Fall Prevention
- Strategies for fall prevention:
- Improve lighting
- Remove loose rugs
- Add grab bars near bathtubs, toilets, and stairways
- Formal home safety evaluation
- Physical therapy for core strength and balance
- Eliminate medications that can affect alertness and balance
- Assistive device evaluation and training
Take Home Message
- It is important to improve the ability to assess risk factors for osteoporosis and apply evidence-based screening recommendations to at-risk patients
- Develop strategies to improve the treatment of patients with osteoporosis
- Utilize available tools and information, including patient education resources and systems-based approaches, to enhance the assessment and care provided to patients with osteoporosis
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This quiz covers essential information about osteoporosis, including its risk factors and prevention strategies. Learn how to maintain strong bones through proper nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices. Ideal for those looking to enhance their understanding of bone health.