Course Description
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, around 10 million women above 50 years of age have osteoporosis, and around 2 million among men in the same age group. This number increases significantly to 70% among women for those 80 years old and above, and 15% among men in the same group. It is obvious that there is a gender discrepancy with more risk among women developing osteoporosis. It is clear that osteoporosis is a healthcare concern for many of our seniors. Osteoporosis, however, is NOT part of aging. Not all seniors have osteoporosis. Just like any disease, a person can do things to minimize the risk of developing osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, by itself, is not life threatening. No one gets hospitalized after a diagnosis of osteoporosis. The resulting consequence of a fall however, due to osteoporosis, may be very debilitating for the person and even result in death. It is very important for us to recognize modifiable factors to minimize risks of osteoporosis.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize prevalence of osteoporosis among the elderly.
- Review physiology of bone cells.
- Review pathophysiology of osteoporosis.
- Explain why osteoporosis is called a “silent” disease.
- Explain how osteoporosis is diagnosed.
- Discuss other health conditions that can affect bone health.
- Identify factors that can increase risk for developing osteoporosis.
- Lists healthy living tips to minimize risk of osteoporosis.