Ovary removal may increase women's osteoporosis risk

Women who have had their ovaries removed to reduce their risk of breast or ovarian cancer may be significantly more likely to develop osteoporosis, according to a new study out of Johns Hopkins University. The researchers recommend that women who undergo this procedure be monitored and given a prescription to buy Fosamax when appropriate.

About 600,000 women undergo complete hysterectomies each year in the U.S. About half of these individuals have both their ovaries removed, indicating that a large number of may be impacted by the findings.

For the study, the researchers examined the medical records of 3,700 women over age 40. The results showed that those who had both ovaries removed had on average 3 percent weaker bones. Those who took hormone replacement medications had even weaker bones.

"Our results suggest that such women should be monitored closely for osteoporosis," says Kala Visvanathan, who led the investigation.

With a prescription to buy Fosamax, a woman may be able to significantly reduce her risk of developing osteoporosis. The new findings may help doctors determine which patients have the greatest need for these medications.