According to the World Health Organization, up to half of women 75-79 years old will be affected. Women are intensely interested in osteoporosis today, but many are equally concerned about the possibility of developing breast cancer with long-term estrogen use. Studies also indicate that estrogen has some beneficial effect even if use is delayed until a woman is in her sixties or seventies. Treatment of osteoporosis, however, is changing. Selected patients may also benefit from vitamin D metabolites, fluoride or hydrochlorothiazide.
Calcium builds bones best in children and adolescents.
After the age of 35, almost everyone begins to lose bone. Adequate calcium intake helps to slow down bone loss in adults, but calcium by itself is not a treatment for osteoporosis. This deficiency can cause generalized bone pain, and may mimic osteoporosis. Treatments should be supervised by a physician. Inadequate response to treatment can be detected and a different treatment program instituted.