Osteoporosis -- the gradual decline 
in bone mass with age, leading to increased bone fragility and fractures. 

The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis are fractures of the hip and the vertebrae. 

The World Health Organization attributes the likelihood of developing osteoporosis to factors including smoking, lack of physical activity, excess alcohol consumption, low calcium and Vitamin D intake and thinness. Other factors, which predispose to osteoporosis are a family history of the condition, premature menopause, some cancers and long-term use of some drugs, for example “tranquilizers”, steroids or those prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy.

Prevention of fractures are particularly important.  Doctors recommend a healthy lifestyle including physical activity (especially weight-bearing exercise), a balanced diet, and abstinence from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption appears to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis in later life. The earlier a healthy life style is adopted, the greater the gains, but modifications are beneficial at any age.

In women with low bone-density hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) at menopause decreases the rate of bone loss, but HRT should be started within 5 years of menopause to ensure its full benefits. For women with ovarian cancer, there is controversy about the types of HRT to take.  There are some concerns about an increased risk of developing thrombosis and cancer of the breast and womb.  Some physicians assert that estrogen could promote ovarian cancer development.  Others indicate that data from human epidemiology studies do not suggest any problems. 

Women with ovarian cancer should have a discussion with her physicians to consider carefully the risks and benefits of HRT for each individual patient.  Most doctors encourage women to employ some actions to decrease the threats of osteoporosis.  

Sources:  

World Health Organization, Aging and Osteoporosis, 1999 

Dr. Susan Ott, Dept of Medicine, University of Washington,  has a great web site for her students, 2000

The National Osteoporosis Foundation's web site

The International Osteoporosis Foundation web site has information and educational material