The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #70400

Vicki Meyer, Ph D, Women's Studies, University South Florida, Sarasota, 5700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243, 941-360-2146, vmeyer@sar.usf.edu

Menopause has been constructed as an estrogen deficiency condition. A major consequence of this so-called deficiency is said to be osteoporosis and women have been urged to take long-term estrogen in order to prevent fractures. Other strategies with far less risk have received much less attention. This paper will explore such questions as: Why do many women lose bone bone during the menopausal transition? What accounts for the tremendous variation in hip fractures rates among racial and ethnic groups, across nations, and over time? and How can women best reduce their risk of fractures and improve their overall quality of life.

Learning Objectives:

• Critique arguments used to support the menopause-osteoporosis link.
• Examine cross-cultural statistics on fracture rates for clues to etiology.
• Explore risk reducing strategies for both primary and secondary prevention.

Keywords: Menopause, Hip Fractures

Related Web page: www.inorm.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.