Researchers found that Parkinson's disease (PD) in older men is
associated with lower bone mineral density and suggested th

12-Oct-2005(News-Medical.Net) - Researchers looked at a group of
nearly 6,000 men, aged 65 and older, including 52 with PD, to
determine the association between the disease and low bone density
and falls in older men. Those with PD were found to have
significantly lower bone density at the spine and hip. Further, PD
was associated with a nearly three times greater risk of multiple
future falls.
With lower bone density and the increased risk for falls, older men
with PD are more likely to have less dense or "thin" bones that are
more easily fractured or broken, compared to those who don't have the
disease.

However, because most of the men who participated in the study were
community dwelling (rather than in nursing homes or similar
facilities), largely healthy, and white, these findings might not
apply to those with more severe PD, to women, to those in nursing
homes, or to other racial groups, the researchers report.

The researchers suggest that older men with Parkinson's disease ask
their physicians about having their bone density measured. Patients
should also inquire about ways to boost bone density with safe
exercises and appropriate doses of such bone-building nutrients such
as calcium and vitamins D and K.

Parkinson's disease is a treatable, but not curable, nerve disorder
that causes worsening tremors, difficulty moving, and balance
problems. PD is increasingly common with age and affects about 6 in
every 1,000 adults aged 65 to 69, and 30 in every 1,000 adults older
than 80.