The Doc Talk Podcast
Dr. Shazma Mithani and Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe have spent years navigating the health care system. Not just as doctors for their patients, but as moms for their kids, and patients themselves. And they know it's not always straightforward.
Every two weeks they'll take a real question from a real patient, and provide in-depth answers with a clear path to action, with help from other trusted experts.
No jargon. No time wasted. Just real talk about real issues from two doctors who've seen it all. And they'll give you the inside scoop on how to navigate the health care system like a pro.
This is The Doc Talk.
Disclaimer: The Doc Talk is for general information purposes only. This podcast is not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor. While we are doctors, we are not your doctor. Always speak to your own healthcare provider for questions related to your personal health needs.
The Doc Talk Podcast
8. How Do I Optimize My Bone Health?
Today’s episode of The Doc Talk dives into a listener question on bone health and osteoporosis.
Definition of Osteoporosis:
- Dr. Sheila explains osteoporosis as a condition where bones become weak and brittle, making them prone to fractures.
- It’s often called the “silent disease” because there are no symptoms until a fracture happens.
Osteoporosis Statistics:
- Over 2.3 million Canadians are living with osteoporosis.
- It affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men.
- 80% of fractures in those over the age of 50 are due to osteoporosis, with the most common sites being the wrist, spine, shoulder, and hip.
Health Consequences:
- 22% of women and 33% of men who sustain a hip fracture will die within one year of the fracture.
- The healthcare system impact is massive—$4.6 billion per year in Canada alone.
Diagnosing Osteoporosis:
- Dr. Sheila discusses the gold standard test: Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test or DEXA scan.
- Introduction of the FRAX score for assessing a person’s 10-year risk of fracture.
- You can calculate your FRAX score at https://osteoporosis.ca/frax/
Prevention Strategies:
- Importance of calcium and vitamin D for bone health.
- Sources of calcium and vitamin D.
- Regular weight-bearing exercise and strength training.
- Healthy diet and lifestyle recommendations.
- Fall prevention measures.
Supplement Recommendations:
- Vitamin D: 1,000-2,000 IU daily.
- Calcium: Ideally from food, with supplements only if needed.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol and caffeine.
Monitoring Bone Health:
- Importance of regular check-ups and bone mineral density tests.
- Possibility of slowing, stopping, or reversing bone loss with the right treatment.
Medication Options:
- Bisphosphonates, Denosumab (Prolia), and Hormone Therapy (HT).
Bone Loss During Menopause:
- Accelerated bone loss during perimenopause and menopause due to dropping estrogen levels.
- Hormone Therapy as an effective treatment for osteoporosis prevention in early menopause.
Fractures and Osteoporosis:
- Common fractures seen in the ER due to osteoporosis.
- Explanation of compression fractures and their impact on height loss.
ER Management of Fractures:
- Steps taken in the ER for suspected fractures, including imaging and treatment options.
Conclusion:
- Osteoporosis is silent until a fracture happens. Don’t wait—take action now to protect your bone health!
Resources:
- Osteoporosis Canada: https://osteoporosis.ca/
- Calcium Calculator: https://osteoporosis.ca/calcium-calculator/
- FRAX Score Calculator: https://osteoporosis.ca/frax/
Thank you to Always Discreet for sponsoring this episode of the DocTalk Podcast! Get your promo code for your product at: https://checkout51.app.link/e/K3yAUdFCUKb
Medical Disclaimer:
The Doc Talk Podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. While we are doctors, we are not your doctors. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding any personal health concerns.