Research to improve postmenopausal women’s bone and muscle health
Kolling Institute researchers Dr Shejil Kumar and Professor Rory Clifton-Bligh have embarked on a pioneering study to enhance bone health in postmenopausal women. Titled “ Combining Osteoanabolic Pharmacotherapy with Osteogenic Exercise in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis and Osteopenia ”, the ROLEX-DUO study is set to recruit 100 women aged 50 and above. Dr. Kumar said the research will assess the effectiveness of combining exercise and medication to improve bone and muscle health. “We know that exercise has benefits on bone and muscle health, and there are effective treatments available to strengthen bones,” he said.
“However, what we don’t know is whether combining exercise plus medication at the same time can lead to even greater improvements in bone and muscle health than treating with either alone.” The study will utilise a medication that has been shown to increase bone density and reduce fracture risk in previous international studies. Participants will be randomly assigned to different treatment groups, including a supervised group class focusing on weightbearing exercises and a home-based exercise program concentrating on mobility and balance. “We are investigating if this combination is more effective and could change the way we treat and prevent osteoporosis going forward,” Dr Kumar said.
Postmenopausal women between the ages of 50 and 80 are encouraged to participate, as they are at high risk of poor bone health. The study aims to assess how different combinations of treatment improve bone density, muscle strength, body composition, physical function and risk of falls.
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KOLLINGNEWS | JUNE 2024
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