We've joined forces with Mickie Griffith Autry
Osteoporosis and Menopause
Mickie Griffith-Autry, PhD, NP-C
Osteoporosis is a disease of reduced skeletal mass. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) define osteoporosis as “a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength predisposing to an increase in the risk of fracture” (NIH, 2000). Osteopenia is an important factor that describes bone health, as it increases, so does the risk of Osteoporosis and fracture or break in a bone.
In the United States, an estimated 28 million people have osteoporosis. In fact by the age of 70, 40% of women experience a fracture and the most common site occurs in the hip. This occurrence translates into a health care cost of 18 million dollars.
In women, the primary cause of osteoporosis is a decrease in estrogen. However genetics, nutritional deficiencies specifically inadequate consumption of calcium and vitamin D are also causes.
An accurate assessment is necessary. Typically DEXA testing is used to screen for osteoporosis. This test measures done mineral density through low radiation exposure in the spine and hip. Laboratory testing remains non-sensitive and non-specific for osteoporosis. Many times CBC (complete blood counts), serum calcium, and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels are obtained for clarification of other health care problems that may mimic osteoporosis.
Prevention and treatment strategies for osteoporosis are numerous. Hormone therapy, adequate nutritional intake, exercise, smoking cessation, calcium supplements, bisphosphonates, and selective estrogen receptor modulators are currently the leading treatment modalities that are available to women.
Bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis are major health concerns for women of all ages. This becomes paramount to women undergoing menopause. Adequate attention to bone health leads to quality of life for the menopausal women.
December: Physiology of the menstrual cycle
January: Signs and symptoms of menopause
February: Pharmaceutical treatments for menopausal symptoms
March: Lifestyle modifications and menopause
April: Osteoporosis and menopause
May: Complementary and alternative therapy for menopausal symptoms
June: Breast Health
July: Cardiovascular health and menopause
August: Sexuality and menopause
September: Nurtrition and menopause
October: Weight management and activity during menopause
November: Vaginal health and menopause
Ms. Autry earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Jacksonville State University, her Masters of Science degree in nursing from the University of Alabama Huntsville, and her PhD from Walden University. Her research dissertation was entitled Pelvic muscle strengthening: Impact on sexual functioning in the menopausal woman. Ms. Autry is certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the American Nursing Credentialing Center, and the Certification Board for Urological Nurses and Associates. She has completed multiple postgraduate preceptor programs in female sexual medicine, pelvic pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Ms. Autry is an active member of the Society of Urological Nurse Associates, North American Menopause Society, American Urological Society, and the International Pelvic Pain Society and founder of two women's health support groups. She is a national and local speaker for multiple pharmaceutical and medical companies, has participated in clinical trial studies, and has published articles in the Society of Urological Nurse Associate and North American Menopause Society journals.
Warning: Weight loss attempts are serious life changes that require professional medical attention before starting and constant monitoring during the program. The information provided on this site, is not to be considered as medical advice, nor a substitute for compentent medical assistance during weight loss efforts. The information provided is with the implied understanding that changes in your lifestyle should be attempted only as directed by your physician and/or health-care-professional.
Melanie Calvert Benton is available for any of the following events: schools, churches, senior citizen groups, libraries, hunting clubs, women's groups, fitness centers,radio talk shows, etc. Have your media person contact us with the details.
Events over fifty miles will be subject to transportation costs payable by USPO Money or cash. Please try to book at least one month ahead of scheduled event to avoid calendar conflict.
