Older women with bone fractures worry about health, mobility, independence

Thinking about bone health may be more important than one realizes.

A national survey conducted by Harris Interactive and commissioned by the Know My Bones Council found that one out of five women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) are retiring later than anticipated, and nearly half, 48 percent, blame the current economy. Despite the need to work longer, half of the women with PMO are fearful that the disease will limit their ability to work.

However, the research shows that many women are not optimally managing their osteoporosis, putting them at greater risk for fracture, which, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, may lead to chronic pain, disability and even death.

"Broken bones due to osteoporosis are more common in women than breast cancer, heart attacks and strokes combined. As women retire later, bone health is not a luxury, it is a necessity," said Felicia Cosman, M.D., National Osteoporosis Foundation clinical director and medical director of the Clinical Research Center at the Helen Hayes Hospital. "Although some women are making significant strides toward better bone health, more can be done. Education is the first step."

The survey found:

•Women with PMO express that they want and need to stay more active as they age.

•Women with PMO fear their disease might limit their independence and ability to continue working, and 70 percent are fearful about losing their independence or limiting activities.

•The majority of women with PMO believe they are doing everything they can to manage their disease; however, the survey shows that many women with PMO are not optimally managing their disease, putting them at greater risk for fracture, chronic pain and disability.

Only 35 percent of women with PMO initiate discussion about the disease with their doctor, and 27 percent of women with PMO report that they often do not take their osteoporosis medication.

•Women with PMO who have experienced a fracture are more likely to fear the impact of osteoporosis on their lives and are more likely to alter their lives to avoid fractures.

In the survey, 44 percent of women with PMO who have experienced a fracture avoid carrying heavy objects, 32 percent avoid activities and hobbies they used to enjoy with family and friends, and 23 percent avoid climbing stairs.

•Survey results show that education can motivate women to make bone health a greater priority and make lifestyle changes to optimally manage their bone health.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.