Bad to the Bone

Menopause is already a recognized risk factor for bone weakening and loss among women. Now a new study by researchers at Columbia University has shown that postmenopausal HIV-positive women have even higher risks for bone-mineral loss than their HIV-negative, postmenopausal peers. Bone-mineral density measurements taken in the spine, hip, and neck were all lower among HIV-positive women than HIV-negative, age-matched females. Other blood-based markers of bone health also were shown to be lower among the HIVers. None of the bone changes were linked to use of specific anti-HIV medications, although the researchers say antiretroviral treatment could play an adverse role in the low blood-based biomarkers of bone health. 'HIV status remains an independent predictor of bone mineral density after adjustment for traditional factors,' the researchers concluded.