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<\/p>\nOsteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disease in which bone density decreases and bones become more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures in the spine, hip, and wrist. Because the condition often progresses silently, many people are unaware they have osteoporosis until a fracture occurs.<\/p>\n
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At the Saint John\u2019s Health Center our specialists at the Center for Endocrine Tumors and Disorders<\/a>, provide comprehensive evaluation, bone density testing, fracture\u2011risk assessment, and develop personalized treatment plans to protect long\u2011term bone health.<\/p>\n Osteoporosis develops due to a combination of biological, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. Understanding these contributors helps guide prevention and treatment strategies. Some causes are unavoidable, such as aging, while others\u2014like nutritional deficiencies or inactivity\u2014can be modified to support bone health.<\/p>\n Several well\u2011established factors increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. These include aging, hormonal changes such as menopause or low testosterone, family history, and vitamin D or calcium deficiency. Endocrine disorders such as parathyroid disease<\/a> or thyroid conditions<\/a> can also contribute to bone loss.<\/p>\n Certain endocrine and metabolic disorders can accelerate bone loss and increase fracture risk. Conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, chronic kidney disease, gastrointestinal malabsorption, and thyroid disease may contribute to osteoporosis. Our genetic counseling team<\/a> can also evaluate hereditary factors that may influence bone health.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the severity of bone loss and guiding treatment. Our team uses advanced imaging, laboratory testing, and fracture\u2011risk assessment tools to evaluate bone health and identify underlying causes. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention that can significantly reduce fracture risk.<\/p>\n A DEXA scan is the gold\u2011standard test for diagnosing osteoporosis. This painless imaging study measures bone mineral density (BMD) in the hip and spine, providing a clear picture of bone strength. Learn more about our endocrine imaging capabilities through the Endocrine Surgery Program, which works closely with our diagnostic team.<\/p>\n Blood and urine tests help identify metabolic or endocrine causes of bone loss. These tests evaluate calcium levels, vitamin D status, thyroid function, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and markers of bone turnover. Identifying endocrine contributors\u2014such as parathyroid disease<\/a>\u2014helps tailor treatment to each patient\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Patients may also suffer from bone-related conditions including Paget’s Bone Disease, Fibrous Dysplasia, and Bone Metastasis from Cancer. These conditions may affect one or more bones in the body. See Other Bone Disorders<\/u><\/a>.<\/p>\n","layer_is_content_auto_columns":false,"sidebar_position":"right","widgets":false,"layer_icon":"","layer_icon_position":"left","layer_background_color":"bg-none","layer_id":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"layer_content_sidebar","layer_label":"","layer_headline":"","layer_intro":"","layer_content":" \nTreatment for osteoporosis focuses on strengthening bones, reducing fracture risk, and addressing underlying causes of bone loss. Our team develops personalized treatment plans based on bone density results, laboratory findings, age, fracture history, and overall health. Many patients benefit from a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and targeted endocrine care.\n<\/p>\n \nWhen osteoporosis is caused by endocrine disorders such as hyperparathyroidism or thyroid disease, treating the underlying condition can significantly improve bone health. Management may include correcting hormone imbalances, addressing overactive glands, or stabilizing metabolic factors that contribute to bone loss. Our specialists evaluate each patient for contributing endocrine issues and coordinate care accordingly. Learn more about related endocrine conditions, including parathyroid disease<\/a> and thyroid cancer<\/a>.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n \nAt the Saint John\u2019s Cancer Institute, our endocrine specialists provide expert evaluation and treatment for osteoporosis and metabolic bone disorders. We combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalized care to help patients strengthen their bones and reduce fracture risk. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive support for every aspect of bone health.\n<\/p>\n \n Our team includes experienced endocrinologists who specialize in metabolic bone disease and endocrine\u2011related bone conditions. We offer advanced diagnostic imaging, laboratory evaluation, and individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient\u2019s needs. Collaboration with orthopedics, nutrition, and other specialties ensures well\u2011rounded care. Learn more about our Endocrine Tumors & Disorders Center<\/a>.\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n If you have questions regarding osteoperosis symptoms, or treatment, please call today. Click here<\/u><\/a> to request an appointment.<\/p>\n","layer_content_right":"Osteoporosis Causes and Risk Factors<\/h2>\n
\nCommon Risk Factors<\/h3>\n
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Medical Conditions That Increase Risk<\/h3>\n
How Osteoporosis Is Diagnosed<\/h2>\n
\nBone Density (DEXA) Scan<\/h3>\n
![\"Bone](\"https:\/\/www.saintjohnscancer.org\/endocrine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/05\/Bone-Density-DEXA-Scan-of-the-hip-and-spine.jpg\")
<\/p>\nLaboratory Testing<\/h3>\n
Other Bone Conditions<\/h2>\n
Osteoporosis Treatment Options at Saint John\u2019s<\/h2>\n
\nTreatment of Underlying Conditions<\/h3>\n
![\"Evaluation](\"https:\/\/www.saintjohnscancer.org\/endocrine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/05\/Evaluattion-of-osteoporosis-conditions.jpg\")
Why Choose Saint John\u2019s for Osteoporosis Care?<\/h2>\n
\nOur Expertise<\/h3>\n
![\"Endocrine](\"https:\/\/www.saintjohnscancer.org\/endocrine\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/05\/Doctors-Rose-Lin-and-Sarah-Rettinger-Endocrinologists-copy.jpg\"\n)
<\/p>\nRose Lin, MD, and Sarah Rettinger, MD, – Endocrinologists at Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA.<\/div>\n","layer_is_content_auto_columns":false,"sidebar_position":"right","widgets":false,"layer_icon":"","layer_icon_position":"left","layer_background_color":"bg-gray-l","layer_id":""},{"acf_fc_layout":"layer_two_column","layer_label":"","layer_headline":"","layer_intro":"","layer_content_left":"