Some amazing advice about osteoporosis prevention
Here’s something pretty amazing…
Between 1995 and 2006, the rate of osteoporosis-related injuries jumped 55 percent, according to a study conducted by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ).
That’s a troubling statistic, but it’s not the amazing part…
Dr. Anne Elixhauser, a AHRQ senior research scientist told Reuters Health that several factors may have prompted the rise in injuries, including:
- A population with greater numbers of seniors
- Lack of exercise
- Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D
- Increased use of medications that can lower bone mass – specifically proton-pump inhibitors (such as Prilosec and Nexium), and diuretics that treat high blood pressure
For some, the last item on that list will be surprising and amazing. Of course, it’s not amazing at all to HSI members who have been aware for some time now that certain drugs deplete bone mass.
Here’s what IS amazing: A representative from a government agency candidly reveals one of the key drawbacks of two popular types of drugs. But she doesn’t qualify her statement by saying the drugs are good and should be used anyway.
Now THAT’S amazing!
But Dr. Elixhauser didn’t stop there. She told Reuters Health that older adults (both men and women) can prevent osteoporosis by exercising, drinking alcohol in moderation, not smoking, increasing intake of foods that contain calcium and vitamin D, and (if necessary) taking supplements to boost calcium and D intake.
A supplement recommendation AND a warning about two popular classes of drugs? From a government agency?
Pretty amazing.
Source:
“Osteoporosis-Linked Fracture Rates Up Dramatically” Amy Norton, Reuters Health, 8/14/09, reutershealth.com
