The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) agrees with the recommendation released today as part of the Choosing Wisely campaign that women under age 65 and men under age 70 should not be screened for osteoporosis with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). But the nations leading community health organization dedicated to preventing osteoporosis and broken bones cautions patients to consult with their physicians about their risk factors before deciding to forgo the test. Also consistent with the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundations (ABIMF) recommendations, NOF recommends testing post-menopausal women under age 65 and men age 50-70 who have osteoporosis risk factors.
Last week, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Panel voted that the risks of calcitonin salmon outweigh the benefits for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The panel joined health authorities around the world in reviewing the drug’s safety after two recent studies showed slightly higher rates of cancer among patients taking calcitonin. The panel voted against continued use of the drug by a narrow majority, pointing out that it has not been found very effective in preventing bone fractures.
In today's Washington Post article "Calcium and Vitamin D findings show that caring for your bones can be compilicated," NOF's senior clinical director, Dr. Felicia Cosman helps clear up some of the confusion around the recent and conflicting research on calcium and vitamin D. She says: "It’s confusing, even for doctors. But there’s a common thread: None of the heart or kidney risks were associated with calcium from food."
CIRCA, the leading international buyer of fine jewelry, diamonds and watches, announced a new partnership with NOF at a Generations of Strength luncheon at the Friars Club in New York City on February 26. To kick-off the partnership, CIRCA’s Acting CEO Mary L. Forté presented NOF Executive Director and CEO Amy Porter with a check for $25,000, to support NOF’s mission.