Osteoporosis Program

Did You Know... The Osteoporosis program opened a new treatement clinic on October 27, 2004. Research studies are key to breakthroughs... [more]

Our Team | Osteoporosis Clinic

What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a systemic disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to increased bone fragility and risk of fracture.


Normal Bone	Osteoporotic Bone
World Health Organization. Assessment of Fracture Risk and Its Application to Screening for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis. 1994.

Loss of bone can occur for many years without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Osteoporosis can result in disfigurement, constant pain, lower self-esteem, decreased mobility and loss of independence. Seventy per cent of hip fractures are osteoporosis-related. Hip fractures result in death in up to 20 per cent of cases.

The Osteoporosis Program has 3 major components:

Multidisciplinary clinical service that provides diagnostic testing and exemplary patient care
Nationally and internationally recognized research program with global impact
Award-winning academic teaching program

Clinical Services:

Bone Density and Body Composition Laboratory equipped with DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), considered the current gold standard test for osteoporosis
Consultation with physicians specializing in a wide variety of disciplines
Exercise classes designed to maintain bone mass, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls and fractures
Nutritional counselling

Current Research Projects:

The ExCel Breast Cancer Prevention Study focuses on breast cancer prevention in postmenopausal women.
ECKO study on vitamin K and bone health in postmenopausal women with osteopenia
Bone stiffness study as a measure of bone strength
STAR study on breast cancer prevention using an osteoporosis medication
CORE and RUTH studies looking at long-term effects of an osteoporosis medication
Toronto Chinese Osteoporosis Study (TCOS)

Telephone: 416-340-3890
Fax: 416-340-4707

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