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Are You at Risk for Steroid-Induced Bone Loss? Key Factors to Consider
Published: Jun 16, 2024
Steroid medications can be lifesaving, but they come with a serious risk to your bones. Understanding your personal risk factors is crucial for protecting your bone health while on these powerful drugs.
Dose and Duration Matter
The amount of steroids you take and how long you take them are major risk factors. Higher doses and longer use increase your risk of bone loss. Even low doses (equivalent to 2.5-7.5 mg of prednisone daily) can be harmful if taken for months or years. Short courses of high-dose steroids may also increase fracture risk.
Age and Gender
Older adults are at higher risk of steroid-induced bone loss. Postmenopausal women are especially vulnerable due to the combined effects of estrogen loss and steroids on bone. Men over 50 are also at increased risk. While younger adults generally have lower risk, they're not immune, especially with long-term use.
Other Health Factors
Certain conditions increase your risk of steroid-induced bone loss. These include a history of fractures, low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and a family history of osteoporosis. Some diseases that require steroid treatment, like rheumatoid arthritis, can also independently increase bone loss risk.
Assessing Your Risk
Doctors use tools like the FRAX calculator to estimate your fracture risk. This takes into account factors like age, weight, steroid use, and bone density measurements. Regular bone density scans are important for monitoring your bone health while on steroids. Your doctor may also check vitamin D levels and assess your diet and exercise habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, and it can affect their growth. Special monitoring is needed.
The risk is lower, but still present with long-term, high-dose use.
Yes, through medication, diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Partial recovery is possible, especially if caught early.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding your risk factors is the first step in protecting your bones while on steroid therapy.
References
- van Staa TP, et al. The epidemiology of corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis: a meta-analysis. Osteoporos Int 2002; 13:777.
- Kanis JA, et al. Guidance for the adjustment of FRAX according to the dose of glucocorticoids. Osteoporos Int 2011; 22:809.
- Compston J. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: an update. Endocrine 2018; 61:7.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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