03 Feb Gwyneth Paltrow’s Osteopenia Diagnosis at 37: The Silent Condition That Weakens Bones
Doctors share how to reduce your risk of bone loss and fractures
Gwyneth Paltrow is known for her commitment to wellness. But in 2010, the Oscar-winning actress revealed a surprising health diagnosis at just 37—osteopenia. This condition leads to lower-than-normal bone density and can increase the risk of fractures, particularly in women. We spoke with healthcare professionals to understand what osteopenia is, what causes it and how to protect your bone health at any age.
What is osteopenia?
“Osteopenia is a condition where bone mineral density is lower than it should be, but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis,” explains Marc J. Levine, MD, Orthopedic spine surgeon with RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and RWJUH Hamilton. “Think of it as a warning sign that your bones may be weakening and need extra care.”
If left untreated, people with osteopenia may go on to develop osteoporosis. This condition occurs when bone mass and density decrease, causing weak, brittle bones.
“Osteopenia is not as severe as osteoporosis, and fortunately, it can often be reversed without needing prescription drugs or infusion therapies,” adds Jennifer Hankenson, MD, Assistant Professor of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation at Yale School of Medicine.
While osteopenia is most common in postmenopausal women due to declining estrogen levels, it can also affect younger women. Dr. Levine notes this is especially true if they have risk factors such as “low vitamin D levels, a diet lacking calcium, a history of eating disorders or even just genetics. Conditions that require long-term steroid usage can also lead to decreasing bone density.”
Read more: https://www.womansworld.com/wellness/gwyneth-paltrows-osteopenia-diagnosis-how-to-prevent-bone-loss