Bone Health in Women

Bone health is critical to overall health and quality of life. Although genetic factors play a key role in bone formation, there are several external factors that can be modified to preserve bone health. Diet, exercise, menstrual irregularities, medications, disease states, weight, and environmental factors can all affect fracture risk. Osteoporosis is characterized by decrease in bone mass and microarchitectural changes in the bone that increases fracture risk. Screening for osteoporosis may help facilitate treatment before fractures occur. Preventing fractures needs patient and physician understanding of bone health to improve and requires a team effort.