Osteoporosis

In this column, we will aim to raise awareness about osteoporosis, highlighting the importance of early screening and timely diagnosis, with a special focus on older women in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.

<Q1> What is osteoporosis? I heard that AANHPI women are facing a high risk of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them more likely to break. It affects about 54 million adults, increasing the risk of fractures, disability, and loss of independence. One in two women over 50 will experience a fracture in her lifetime, and two out of three women with osteoporosis and a high risk of fracture will break a bone.

Asian American women are at particularly high risk due to naturally lower bone density and dietary factors. In addition, up to 90% of Asian Americans are lactose, leading to lower calcium intake, as dairy products, a main source of calcium, are often avoided. Without adequate calcium and vitamin D, bones weaken, increasing the likelihood of fractures. Despite having one of the highest rates of osteoporosis, AANHPI women are 35-50% less likely to be screened or treated for the condition compared to other populations.

<Q2> What are the hidden dangers of fractures from osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is more common than people realize. Many times, breaking a bone is the first sign of the condition, so it is often called a “silent disease.” For older AANHPI women, who are often caregivers in their families, a fracture can be life changing.

Fractures due to osteoporosis carry significant health risks:

·      60% of people never regain full independence after a fracture.

·      Hip fractures are especially serious: 32% of people die within a year of sustaining one.

·      Spinal fractures are also dangerous: 10% of people die within a year after a spinal fracture.

·      Chronic pain, limited mobility, and depression are common outcomes.

NAPCA is dedicated to improving the quality of life of older Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults. We urge all older adults, especially women, to prioritize osteoporosis screening and treatment to prevent further bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

<Q3> What should older AANHPI older women do to learn bone health, screenings, and treatment options?

Osteoporosis is a serious condition, but it is often overlooked in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. While bone density tests are recommended for women 65 and older, fewer than 20% of osteoporosis patients are properly assessed and treated. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, only 7% of postmenopausal women report taking osteoporosis medication.

To close this gap, older AANHPI women should ask their doctors about bone density testing annually and take proactive steps to maintain strong bones. This includes:

·  Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake (including non-dairy sources such as tofu, leafy greens, and fortified foods).

·  Engaging in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.

·  Discussing medications that can slow bone loss or promote bone growth.

·  Addressing fall risks at home.

If you or a loved one are at risk, speak with your healthcare provider about bone health, screenings, and treatment options to stay strong and independent for years to come. Prevention and early treatment can make a big difference.

If you have questions about public benefits, there are three ways you can reach us today:

Call: (English) 1-800-336-2722, (Chinese Mandarin) 1-800-683-7427, (Chinese Cantonese) 1-800-582-4218,

         (Korean) 1-800-582-4259, (Vietnamese) 1-800-582-4336

Email: askNAPCA@napca.org

Mail: NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101

National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of AANHPI older adults and their families. We operate a NAPCA Senior Assistance Center for Older Adults and Caregivers and is available in 5 different languages.