A recent study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society indicates that of male smokers were more likely than their female counterparts to have osteoporosis and fractures of their vertebrae, mostly due to the fact that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were independent risk factors for low bone density.
“Our findings suggest that current and past smokers of both genders should be screened for osteoporosis,” said Elizabeth Regan, MD, assistant professor of medicine at National Jewish Health. “Expanding screening to include men with a smoking history and starting treatment in those with bone disease may prevent fractures, improve quality of life and reduce health care costs.”
Of the 3,321 current and ex-smokers studied, 11 percent of the study participants had normal bone density, 31 percent had intermediate bone density, and 58 percent had low bone density. Thirty-seven percent of the participants had one or more fractures of their vertebrae. Men accounted for 55 percent of the smokers with low bone density and 60 percent of those with vertebral fractures.
Not only does this study emphasize the importance of being screened for osteoporosis, but it also gives yet another reason why individuals should either quit or avoid smoking altogether for a healthier lifestyle.
