Q. What is osteopenia and should I be concerned?
A. Osteopenia is a term to describe a decrease in normal bone density, but not severe enough to call it osteoporosis. Reduced bone density can makes the bones fragile, increasing the chance of bone fractures. Postmenopausal women and women over age 65 are at higher risk for bone density issues. Â Some risks, such as age, gender family history, ethnicity and previous history of bone fractures are not controllable. However, the National Institutes of Health reminds that certain risk factors can be improved or changed. These include:
- Diet – having a diet that is rich in protein, vitamins and minerals that are essential to bone health; exercising for stronger bones;
- No smoking – smokers absorb less calcium in their diets and women who smoke have lower estrogen levels;
- Certain medications – some commonly-used medicines can cause loss of bone mass, including some glucocorticoids used to control arthritis and asthma; some anti-seizure drugs and other prescribed medications
- Low body weight – women who are thin and small-boned are at greater risk for osteoporosis.
A bone density tests via a DEXA scan, identifies osteopenia or osteoporosis.
Based on test results and other risk factors, your doctor can determine whether treatment is required for the condition.
Getting enough calcium, vitamin D, along with avoiding excessive alcohol, not smoking and getting plenty of exercise can help prevent osteopenia.
For more information on bone mass, visit http://1.usa.gov/1dhCGFO
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