WHAT’S NEW IN
OSTEOPOROSIS RESEARCH
According to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (KCHFS), one in two women and one in four men over age 50 years will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Becoming aware of the latest developments in osteoporosis research can help you enjoy good musculoskeletal health for years to come. By Jamie Lober, Staff Writer Lifestyle choices can impact your general wellness. Bone density develops throughout the lifetime and peaks in the late 20s, so the earlier you form good habits, the better off you will be. The old belief that carrying extra weight can help build stronger bones no longer holds true. Studies have shown being obese or having type 2 diabetes can lead to an increased risk of low bone density and fractures. Exercise, particularly weight-bearing activities such as jogging or weightlifting, can strengthen bones and prevent the onset of diabetes. Eating a balanced diet, staying active and not smoking are factors you can control, but others may or may not be in your hands, such as age,
being underweight, Caucasian and female, having a family history of fractures and low estrogen and testosterone levels and using steroids and excessive alcohol. Medical conditions such as endocrine diseases or thyroid issues can also decrease bone strength. An elevated platelet/lymphocyte ratio can serve as an effective biomarker in predicting postmenopausal osteoporosis. Another consideration is mid-arm muscle circumference measurement, especially for older men. The National Osteoporosis Foundation says some medications may cause bone loss and that is inevitable, particularly if you have to take these medications for another condition. Some better- known medications that can cause bone loss include heparin,
