Recommendations for Improving Women's Bone Health Throughout the Lifespan

Area of Science:

• Bone Health
• Osteoporosis Research
• Women's Health

Background:

• Osteoporosis leads to increased fracture risk, particularly in women due to hormonal changes like estrogen depletion.
• Postmenopausal women face significantly higher fracture risks, with serious consequences including mortality and high healthcare costs.
• Current care often focuses on post-menopausal and post-fracture management, necessitating a paradigm shift.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of women's bone health and osteoporosis care.
• To identify and address gaps in screening, diagnosis, and treatment for bone disease in women.
• To explore strategies for a preventive model of bone health care throughout women's lives.

Main Methods:

• Convening an interdisciplinary Bone Health Working Group.
• Reviewing current scientific literature and clinical practices.
• Analyzing gaps in women's osteoporosis care.

Main Results:

• Women have lower peak bone mass and higher lifetime fracture risk compared to men.
• Estrogen levels significantly influence bone density and fracture risk, especially after menopause.
• Existing osteoporosis care models are often reactive rather than proactive.

Conclusions:

• A preventive model for women's bone health, engaging throughout the lifespan, is crucial.
• Recommendations include enhancing public awareness, clinical education, screening access, and provider communication.
• A broader risk stratification approach is needed for effective osteoporosis treatment.