Osteoporosis is a condition, which results in loss of bone strength, thus making bone more fragile and easily susceptible to fracture. The condition is often first recognised when someone has a fracture without a major accident or trauma. Recent Australian research shows many people who suffer low trauma fracture are simply not aware they have osteoporosis and do not have treatment for the condition.

Professor John Eisman and colleagues from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research undertook a study to examine the prevalence of osteoporotic fractures, risk factors for osteoporosis, and use of antifracture therapy among postmenopausal Australian women.¹ They gathered just on 70,000 surveys from women and their 927 primary care physicians showing that 29% of postmenopausal women reported at least one low-trauma fracture.

The study results also showed that the prevalence of all types of fractures, except rib and ankle, increased with age and low body weight. Those who reported fractures were also more likely to report early menopause, corticosteroid use, and a family history of osteoporosis.

Of the women who reported a fracture after menopause, only 28% were on any specific therapy for osteoporosis, and 7% were on calcium alone. Of those who had been told they had osteoporosis by a doctor, only 40% were receiving specific osteoporosis therapy.

Treatment for osteoporosis can be as simple as introducing lifestyle changes, such as increased exercise, avoidance of smoking and improved calcium intake as well as specific drugs to help decrease bone loss. The research highlights the need for women to consider having discussions with their doctor to find out ways to improve their bone health with diet and appropriate exercise, and whether they need specific investigations for osteoporosis.

1. Eisman J, Clapham S, Kehoe L; Australian BoneCare Study. Osteoporosis prevalence and levels of treatment in primary care: the Australian BoneCare Study. J Bone Miner Res. 2004 Dec;19(12):1969-75.

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Content updated February 25, 2005