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Murine Hind Limb Long Bone Dissection and Bone Marrow Isolation
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Management of Bone Health Considerations in Patients with Cancer
Michelle Brennan1, Tania Kalsi2
1Department of Geriatric Medicine, University Hospital Limerick, V94 F858 Limerick, Ireland.
Cancers
|September 13, 2025
Summary
Older adults with cancer face increased osteoporosis risk. Comprehensive bone health assessment and management are crucial for cancer survivorship programs to minimize bone loss and fracture risk.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Oncology
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Older adults with cancer are living longer due to advances in early detection and treatment.
- This demographic has a higher risk of osteoporosis due to aging, cancer itself, and cancer treatments.
- Cancer treatments can accelerate bone loss and increase fracture risk through various mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of bone health assessment in older adults with cancer.
- To emphasize the need for updated guidelines considering newer cancer therapies.
- To advocate for a standardized approach to bone health management in cancer survivorship.
Main Methods:
- Review of current guidelines and literature on cancer treatment-induced bone loss.
- Analysis of the impact of various cancer treatments on bone density and fracture risk.
- Assessment of current practices in bone health management for cancer patients.
Main Results:
- International guidelines exist for hormonal therapy-induced bone loss but lack recommendations for glucocorticoids and immunotherapies.
- Individualized fracture risk assessment is recommended for all cancer patients.
- Education on non-pharmacological management and shared decision-making for bone-targeted agents are crucial.
Conclusions:
- Bone health assessment is a vital component of geriatric care for older cancer patients.
- Expanded guidelines are needed to address bone health impacts from novel cancer treatments.
- Standardized strategies for bone density loss and fracture risk reduction are essential for cancer survivorship programs.
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