In India, adults with hemophilia at risk for osteoporosis

Researchers from the King Edward Memorial Hospital in Mumbai (Bombay), India, examined the bone health of 50 adults (ages 20-50 years) with hemophilia. Osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones) was present in the lower back (lumbar spine) in half of the adults, and in the hip joint in around one-third. These adults had lower than normal bone density; six individuals had a history of bone fractures.

The researchers explain that inadequate treatment of bleeding episodes in the joints (hemarthrosis, a complication of hemophilia) due to the high cost of medicine causes permanent joint damage in many adults with hemophilia in India. The painful joints make physical activity difficult, which contributes to the risk of developing osteoporosis. The researchers note that regular exercise, physical therapy, treatment of hemarthrosis, and treatment of vitamin D deficiency would help prevent osteoporosis. The research was published in the February 2007 issue of American Journal of Hematology.