4 September 2007

Ensuring children and adolescents get plenty of exercise, sufficient calcium and vitamin D now may help them avoid bone fractures later in life.

This is one of several recommendations in the current edition of the National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS) bi-monthly bulletin NPS News (No. 53). Following a critical analysis of a wide range of authoritative evidence, NPS has devoted this edition of NPS News to ‘Maintaining bone health to prevent osteoporotic fractures’.

NPS spokeswoman Judith Mackson said osteoporotic fractures were a major public health problem. “They occur in 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men over 60 years of age – and the incidence is rising,” Ms Mackson said. “These fractures can lead to persistent pain, height loss, spinal deformity and even premature death. Lifestyle factors contribute to bone mass and structure; therefore parents can take steps now to improve the bone health of their children in their adult lives.”

These lifestyle factors include regular weight-bearing exercises and getting the right amount of vitamin D by exposing the face, hands and arms to about 5-15 minutes of sunlight 4-6 times per week. NPS also encourages families to consume calcium-rich foods, which can be challenging when faced with teenagers who prefer soft drinks over milk and believe dairy foods are high in fat.

Fractures occurring as a result of fragile bones have a domino effect. “The risk then increases further as more fractures occur,” Ms Mackson said. “It is important that postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who have a fracture are using appropriate drug therapy and get enough calcium and vitamin D.”

It is essential that patients using medications for osteoporosis take them regularly and continue to take them for as long as advised, in order to reduce the risk of fractures. Although the instructions for how to take some of these medications are complicated, it is important that patients follow these instructions carefully to minimise the risk of side effects.

“Families who want to get a head start on good bone health and adults who are concerned about osteoporosis or have questions about their medications should speak with their doctor or pharmacist,” Ms Mackson said.

To download a copy of NPS News go to www.nps.org.au, or email or call (02) 8217 8700 for further information.

ENDS