Determination of Serum Estrogen levels and its Relationship with Risk of Osteoporosis among Women in Mangalore.

Aims and Objectives:-To estimate the risk of osteoporosis among pre and post menopausal women and determine the serum estrogen level and its relationship with risk of osteoporosis. Background:-Osteoporosis is considered to be one of the most prevalent health prevailing problems in India, posing a huge economic burden on our country. According to a startling survey by the arthritis foundation of India, it is estimated that by 2050, half of the world?s fractures will occur in India and the total affected population with osteoporosis could be around 25 million. Design:-Descriptive co relational design. Methods:-The study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital at KSHEMA, Mangalore in the year 2015. 50 pre menopausal women aged 25-45 years and 50 post menopausal women aged 46-65 years were selected by purposive sampling. Baseline data and the risk of osteoporosis were assessed in both the groups using the osteoporosis risk assessment tool and those at risk were assessed for the serum estrogen levels. Results:-Majority of the post menopausal women were at moderate risk of osteoporosis and had decreased serum estrogen levels compared to the pre menopausal women. A negative relation was found between the risk of osteoporosis and serum estrogen level. The risk of osteoporosis was twice more among the women with serum estrogen level <45pg/ml. Conclusions:-The risk of osteoporosis increases with decreased serum estrogen levels. Hence creating awareness regarding importance of screening for osteoporosis and importance of diet during post-menopausal period is an essential step to prevent further complications.