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Study Reveals Potent New Osteoporosis Therapy

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	You play a very important role in your own health care and treatment. The better you understand the health issues that are part of your life, the better you can talk with your doctors, nurses, and therapists to make the health care decisions that are best for you. On this page you will find a variety of resources about osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become brittle and prone to fracture. If you have additional questions or concerns, contact your doctor to discuss your health, and feel free to visit our Patient Family Learning Center.
	A substance secreted by four tiny glands in the neck could provide the most powerful treatment to date for osteoporosis, the bone-eroding disease that currently affects millions of Americans. In this week’s New England Journal of Medicine, a Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) researcher working with scientists elsewhere reports that postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who took daily doses of human parathyroid hormone had significantly fewer spine and nonspine fractures. By promoting bone formation, the hormone also significantly increased bone density in their spine, hip, and total body.
	In the 1920s, MGH researchers discovered that parathyroid hormone not only regulated calcium levels in the blood, but also increased bone density in animals. By the 1970’s, MGH researchers were the first to determine the chemical structure of human parathyroid hormone, which then enabled them to synthesize it for the first time. In a series of clinical studies reported in the 1980’s, Neer and his colleagues first showed that daily doses of the hormone significantly increased bone density in women and men. return to top
	Are you at risk for osteoporosis? Women who otherwise look and feel healthy may still be at risk for osteoporosis. Consider these risk factors: Being past menopause Lack of physical activity and weight-bearing exercise, which can lead to decreased bone mass Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D Heredity - including a family history of osteoporosis or fractures and being of Caucasian or Asian descent A thin or petite build Taking medications, such as steroids for arthritis or asthma Smoking Too much caffeine or alcohol consumption Even if none of the above risk factors apply to you, it is advised that you check with your physician about your risk for and subsequent treatment of osteoporosis. Your doctor can perform a bone scan, prescribe medication or hormone replacement, help you find a good diet and exercise program or simply talk to you about different treatments for osteoporosis. return to top
	Finding a Physician @ MGH Mass General Hospital has physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. To find out more, please call The Vincent Obstetrics and Gynecology Service (617) 724-6850 The Mass General Endocrine Unit and The Osteoporosis Center at Mass General (617) 726-8720 Mass General Orthopaedics – Please contact through the Mass General Physician Referral line (800) 388-4MGH Mass General Physician Referral Line (800) 388-4MGH return to top

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