Caroline Lardner

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an established risk factor for osteopenia and osteoporosis.¹ This is because IBD is associated with low bone mineral density (BMD), which, in turn, is associated with an increased risk of fractures. Patients with IBD can have up to 40% more fractures than the general population, which contributes to increased morbidity and reduced quality of life.² The aim of this project was to ascertain the level of bone health monitoring in patients with IBD.

DEXA scan status was monitored in a cohort of patients with IBD that were reviewed by the IBD candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner (cANP).

By adopting a mindset of health maintenance, healthcare professionals can identify potential health risks early. This is especially important for patients with IBD. The findings of this audit highlight the need for routine assessment of bone health in this patient group.

 

References: 1. Gordon H, Burisch J, Ellul P, et al. ECCO Guidelines on Extraintestinal Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Disease. J Crohns Colitis. 2024;18(1):1-37. doi:10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjad108 2. Lima CA, Lyra AC, Mendes CMC, et al. Bone mineral density and inflammatory bowel disease severity. Braz J Med Biol Res. 2017;50(12):e6374. Published 2017 Oct 19. doi:10.1590/1414-431X20176374