New survey suggests OB/GYNs, patients should discuss bone health

CLEVELAND According to a new survey distributed by The North American Menopause Society on Monday, while 98% of women who participated consider bone strength to be an important health concern, nearly half (45%) of these women reported that osteoporosis was not addressed during their last routine OB/GYN visit, and more than a quarter (26.4%) of women surveyed have never discussed osteoporosis with their OB/GYN.

“The potential for rapid bone loss in women over the age of 45, approaching menopause should be a concern, but unfortunately osteoporosis can be overlooked since it is often a 'silent' disease until a fracture occurs,” stated NAMS executive director Wulf Utian. “We hope the results of this survey will encourage improved dialogue between women and their OB/GYNs to help prevent unnecessary fractures.”

During the first five years after reaching menopause, women lose an average of 10% of their bone mass, making them more susceptible to osteoporosis. However, this survey showed that less than 10% of women reported being informed by their OB/GYNs that broken bones after menopause could be a sign of osteoporosis.

Studies have shown that in the U.S. over 70% of osteoporosis-related fractures and 94% of fracture costs are associated with non-spinal fractures. However, only 10% of women surveyed reported that their OB/GYNs have discussed the importance of preventing breaks in non-spinal bones.

“Women need to make the connection between menopause and osteoporosis to ensure they are asking the right questions and sharing the right information with their OB/GYNs. NAMS can play a key role in this education,” Utian said.

More than 880 women completed the NAMS consumer survey which assessed how they discuss osteoporosis with their OB/GYNs.