Bone Health During & After Treatment
Why is it important to keep our bones strong and healthy?
Our bones store minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which help keep our bones strong, and release them into the body when we need them for other uses. Our bones support us, allow us to move, and protect our brain, heart, and other organs from injury. Bones are a living, growing tissue made up of collagen (a protein that provides a soft framework), and calcium (a mineral that adds hardness and strengthen). This makes your bones strong and flexible.
How are Breast Cancer and bone health related?
Breast cancer and bone health are related because some breast cancer treatments can lower bone density and increase the risk of fractures from the fragile, weak bones. chemotherapy, target the estrogen production in our bodies. When less estrogen is being produced, bone density can be reduced. This makes your bones vulnerable to little breaks. If you are in chemotherapy, talk to your physician about the medicines you are receiving to make sure these medicines are not weakening your bones. Poor bone health then can relate to poor immune health.
How do I know if I am affected?
There are typically no symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But if you have a lot of bone loss you might be diagnosed with Osteoporosis, you might have back pain, shortened height, minor falls, or a stooped posture. Osteoporosis happens when you have lost too much bone mass and there are changes occurring in the structure of bone tissue. Your bones will have less strengthen which can lead to an increase risk of fractures.
What can I do to help?
It is smart to get a bone density scan, also known as a DEXA scan, which is a low-dose x-ray test that measures calcium and other minerals in your bones. The measurement also shows the strengthen and thickness of your bones. It’s recommended to take one before you start treatment and a follow up scan two to five years after. Below are some at home suggestions to keep your bones strong and healthy.
Here are some tips to strengthen your bones:
Quit smoking
Limit your alcohol intake
Engage in weight-bearing, aerobic, and impact exercise since bones heal when there is pressure on them
Some exercises: jogging, Pilates, yoga, lifting weights, tennis, boxing
Take vitamin D, vitamin K, and Calcium supplements
Eat a healthy, balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, proteins, starchy foods, and milk and dairy products
Talk to your doctor if you are worried about your bone density being low
Videos:
Breast Cancer Treatment and Osteoporosis from Breast Cancer Now
Why is Bone Therapy During Breast Cancer So Important? from Dr. Jennifer Griggs
How to Understand Osteoporosis and Breast Cancer from Dr. Jennifer Griggs
Resource Guides:
Bone Health and Breast Cancer Fact Sheet by Breast Cancer Network Australia
Caring for your Bones when you have Breast Cancer by Cancer Care
Boning Up on Osteoporosis by National Osteoporosis Foundation
