From the Guidelines
Osteoporosis is a condition where your bones become weak and can break easily, so it's crucial to take care of them by eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. To explain this in simpler terms, think of your bones like a bank account - throughout childhood and teenage years, you deposit calcium and other minerals to build strong bones [ 1 ]. After age 30, you slowly start withdrawing more than you deposit, making bones weaker over time.
Some key points to keep in mind for maintaining healthy bones include:
- Eating foods rich in calcium, such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and leafy greens
- Consuming foods rich in vitamin D, such as eggs, fatty fish, and fortified foods, as your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium properly
- Exercising regularly, especially activities where you stand and move against gravity like walking, dancing, or sports
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol, as these can damage bones
- Being aware that some medications can cause bone loss as a side effect, so always talking to your doctor about this risk
According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology [ 1 ], patients at risk of osteoporosis should be offered bone density tests and discussions about healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as diet and exercise, to prevent bone loss. Healthcare providers should personalize their recommended screening strategy and discuss the choice of risk assessment tools, such as FRAX, with patients. Additionally, pharmacologic interventions, such as bisphosphonates, may be necessary for patients at increased risk of bone fracture, and the potential benefits, adverse effects, and patient preferences should be discussed.
It's also important to note that fall prevention is crucial for individuals with osteoporosis, so keeping your home free of tripping hazards, using good lighting, and wearing supportive shoes can help prevent painful fractures and disability later in life [ 1 ].
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Osteoporosis Patient Education
Osteoporosis patient education is crucial for preventing fractures and improving outcomes. According to 2, osteoporosis is a subclinical condition until complicated by fracture(s), and any new fracture in an adult aged 50 years or older signifies imminent elevated risk for subsequent fractures.
Key Components of Osteoporosis Patient Education
- Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D
- Avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol intake
- Weight-bearing and resistance-training exercise
- Fall prevention
- Pharmacotherapy, such as antifracture medication, to prevent fractures and improve outcomes 2
Effectiveness of Patient Education
Studies have shown mixed results on the effectiveness of patient education in osteoporosis prevention and treatment. A systematic review found that patient education had a significant impact on osteoporosis management results, including initiation of and adherence to pharmacological therapy, physical activity, calcium and vitamin D intake, and osteoporosis knowledge 3. However, another systematic review found that the effects of osteoporosis patient education were inconclusive, with limited evidence for its effectiveness 4.
Developing Effective Patient Education Materials
To develop effective patient education materials, it is essential to understand the preferences and needs of patients. A study found that patients preferred educational materials that included photographs and were easy to understand 5. The study also found that patients were able to restate the basic content of the brochure and preferred a brochure that used photographs.
Importance of Ongoing Monitoring and Strategic Interventions
Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that requires lifelong treatment, both non-pharmacological and pharmacological. Regular monitoring is necessary to assess whether drug treatment should be interrupted, continued, or extended 6. The aim is to preserve bone health into old age and prevent fractures. Ongoing monitoring and strategic interventions, including patient education, are crucial for managing osteoporosis and preventing fractures.
Patient Education in Middle School Terms
To educate patients about osteoporosis in middle school terms, it is essential to use simple and clear language. Patients should be informed about the importance of:
- Eating a healthy diet that includes calcium and vitamin D
- Exercising regularly, including weight-bearing and resistance-training exercises
- Not smoking and limiting alcohol intake
- Preventing falls by removing tripping hazards and using assistive devices
- Taking medication as prescribed to prevent fractures and improve outcomes 2, 3, 4