Lifestyle risk factors for osteoporosis

MedSurg Nursing, Oct, 1997 by Terry N. Thomas

Secondary prevention can be implemented in acute care and nursing home settings through fall-prevention programs aimed at the elderly. Women who are diagnosed with osteoporosis should be identified as high risk for falls and appropriate measures instituted. Secondary prevention also includes identifying women who abuse alcohol or other drugs and may be at risk for falls due to unsteady gait and balance (wardlaw & Weese, 1995).

In osteoporosis, prevention programs for nurses should consider the economic status of women (woods, 1995). Middle and upper-income women are more likely to have access to regular health care that may include teaching and information about osteoporosis throughout the lifespan. Middle and upper-income women are also more likely to be able to afford medications such as calcium supplements and estrogen. Therefore, it is important for the nurse to assess bone health of lower-income women and to offer information on osteoporosis prevention through community programs aimed at this group.

Preventing osteoporosis requires a combination of health promotion behaviors. Adequate ingestion of calcium throughout the lifespan is essential, as is weight-bearing exercise. Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women should consider estrogen replacement therapy but be mindful of the fact that it must be combined with adequate calcium intake and exercise. Women should be made aware of the effects of smoking, alcohol, and caffeine consumption on their bone health and be assisted to make lifestyle changes if they desire. The older woman should be encouraged to continue exercising, maintain an adequate diet, and to modify her environments to prevent falls. Combining the nurse's expertise on bone health and knowledge of prevention, maintenance, and restoration with a woman's unique knowledge of her own needs should result in the woman being able to make informed choices about her health as it relates to taking care of her bones.

References

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Erickson, G.P., & Jones, J.A. (1992). Osteoporosis risk assessment of mature working women: Primary and secondary prevention strategies. AAOHN Journal, 40(9), 424-427.

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