Bone production increases with age, reaching a maximum at about age 35.
Thereafter there is a gradual loss of bone.
A woman reaches her maximum bone mass by age 30-35.
In her lifetime, she faces a risk of 1 in 6 of a fractured hip, and 1 in 4 of a fractured vertebrae.
Of those who fracture their hip, 12 -20% will die within 6 months.
Of those who survive, 20 -30% will require long term nursing care.
Exogenous estrogen replacement has been shown to have a protective effect on bone density and reduces the number of fractures. For maximum benefit, however, estrogen must be continued for 10 years past menopause.
Because of perceived risks of cancer and compliance issues, not everyone is a candidate for hormone replacement.
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