Menopausal Bone Loss and Environmental Sustainability

Presenter: Trinity M. Sperry

Faculty Sponsor: Reena Randhir

School: Springfield Technical Community College

Research Area: Biology

Session: Poster Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM, Auditorium, A17

ABSTRACT

In adults over the age of 60, osteoporosis has been the most prevalent degenerative illness known to decrease bone density. This leads to fractures, pain, decreased mobility, and overall lower quality of life. When a woman goes through menopause, the estrogen hormone in her body decreases which is a key contributor to osteoporosis. Data suggests that hormone regulation and skeletal health can be disrupted by ecological factors. The objective of this research is to study the link between increased air pollution, disruption of hormones and bone density loss during menopause. This literature review examines the relationship between menopausal bone loss and air pollution. Peer reviewed studies from PubMed published between  between 2021 and 2024 were analyzed, including population-based and cohort studies. The long term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and bone health was investigated. Population and cohort studies link long term exposure to PM2.5, with weaker bones and higher osteoporosis rates. Exposure to high pollutants during menopause is associated with decreased estrogen levels and a 30- 40% risk increase for osteoporosis. In comparable regions, each year, postmenopausal women experience a loss of 1–1.2% more bone in the lumbar spine. This indicates that bone loss during menopause is impacted by both physiological and environmental elements. Since osteoporosis is currently a public health concern, long term sustainable strategies for bone health include lifestyle modifications, pollution abatement and education support. Priority should also be placed on early intervention and equitable access. Quality of life, rate of osteoporosis and fracture risk will improve with these preventative steps.

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