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Although estrogen replacement drugs are often given
to anorexic women to prevent bone loss and lower their risk of fracture,
the results of a new study suggest that the hormone
does not work and has no effect on bone density.
Researchers measured bone density at several skeletal
locations in 130 anorexic women in their mid 20s.
- 92% had substantial bone loss in at least one
site
- 38% had bone loss severe enough to qualify as
osteoporosis
"Bone mineral density did
not differ by history of estrogen use at any site," the
study authors report.
While estrogen use was not related to bone density,
several other factors were:
- Amount of time that had lapsed since women had
their last menstrual period were factors associated with bone density
In addition to the estrogen, calcium and vitamin D supplements did not improve
bone density either.
Annals of Internal
Medicine November 21, 2000; 133: 790-794
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