Why Does Osteoporosis Occur More in Women?

As a woman, you’re more susceptible to bone loss that leads to osteoporosis, especially after menopause. About 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and 8 million of them are women. Every woman over age 50 has about a 50% chance of a bone break because of the condition. That’s a good reason to get a bone density test. 

Nurse practitioner Christy Jones, APRN, and physician assistant Jennifer Childers, PA-C, at Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine provide expert osteoporosis treatment as well as medical treatment which can prevent it or slow its progression. 

Being more at risk of osteoporosis than men doesn’t mean you’ll develop the condition, but it’s prudent to know whether your bone density levels are normal. 

Osteoporosis develops over several years. Its precursor is osteopenia, which means your bone mass is lower than normal. 

If your bone density is below normal, we begin medical treatment to slow the progression of the disease. We also conduct a lifestyle inventory with you. You can take proactive steps to lower your risk and slow the progression of osteopenia.   

Following are reasons why women are more prone to osteoporosis than men. 

Loss of estrogen in menopause or early menopause

Women experience rapid estrogen loss during menopause. There’s a reason it’s called the “change of life.”

Estrogen promotes bone development. With a dramatic loss in estrogen during menopause, women have an increased risk for osteoporosis.  

Menopause typically occurs between ages 45-55. However, some women experience early menopause (before age 45) or premature menopause (before age 40) due to chemotherapy treatment or a hysterectomy. No matter what age menopause begins, you’re more at risk for osteoporosis at that point. 

Aging 

Your bone is living tissue. It’s constantly breaking down and rebuilding. After age 50, the amount of bone breakdown is greater than the amount of new bone your body produces. Women tend to live longer than men, so older women are prone to osteoporosis. 

Bone size 

Women’s bones are generally smaller and thinner than men’s. You have less bone than men, so bone loss can put you in danger of osteoporosis. 

Genetics

Not all women get osteoporosis, but if your mother or a close family relative had it, you’re at higher risk than a woman whose family hasn’t had it. 

In addition, if you’re a Caucasian or Asian woman, your risk is higher than women of other ethnicities. Researchers estimate that about 20% of Caucasian and Asian women over age 50 in the US have osteoporosis. More than 50% of them have low bone mass, a precursor to the condition. 

Call Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine or book an appointment online today for a bone density test to determine your bone health. We have offices in West Memphis, Arkansas, and Collierville, Tennessee.