Are your bones at risk after cancer treatment? Many cancer survivors experience bone loss due to treatments that affect hormones and bone density. In this episode, we break down what you need to know about osteoporosis, how to assess your risk, and the steps you can take to protect your bone health.

Our expert guest, Dr. Olivia Hum, is a GP specialising in women’s and sexual health, an accredited British Menopause Society Menopause Specialist, and a member of the BMS Medical Advisory Council. She recently contributed to The Guardian on this topic—read the article here: Feel It in Your Bones: Taking the Pain Out of Osteoporosis.

What we cover:

• How cancer treatments impact bone density
• When to get a bone density scan (DEXA scan)
• Medical treatments available for osteoporosis
• Holistic approaches: diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:27 Early Menopause Affects Bone Density

10:16 Aromatase Inhibitors: Risks and Guidelines

15:15 DEXA Scan Waiting Times

20:27 Vitamin D, Calcium, and NOG Guidelines

24:20 Bisphosphonates: Managing Bone Loss

27:32 Managing Medication

34:50 Calcium and Exercise for Bone Health

38:06 Building Stronger Bones with Weight Training

41:37 Discussing Cancer Treatment's Impact on Bones

Resources & Links:

Find Dr Hum here: https://www.mylahealth.co.uk/dr-olivia-hum

Calculate your fracture risk here https://frax.shef.ac.uk/FRAX/

The Royal Society for Osteoporosis is here https://theros.org.uk/how-you-can-help/become-a-member/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAqrG9BhAVEiwAaPu5zpyb0-iN-8QxJX4Z6P-Ggq_KCAFHSIy_f4z88uBXsC9fxij4J1tJSBoCn38QAvD_BwE

NOGG Guidelines are here https://www.nogg.org.uk/

If you're navigating menopause after cancer and want support, visit Menopause and Cancer for more resources.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub