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Biomedical subjects

A W Diddle

Publications and source records attributed to A W Diddle.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1984

Postmenopausal osteoporosis: the role of estrogens.

In 1980, the combined incidences of vertebral and hip fractures necessitating hospitalization of women living in Knox County, Tennessee nearly doubled each five years after the age of 50. These data led us to review the pathogenesis, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic measures used to control or minimize the occurrence of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Postmenopausal diminution in estrogen metabolism appears to be the most important cause of osteoporosis. Other contributory factors include an early menopause, low body weight, lack of sufficient exercise, poor nutrition, and excessive use of alcohol, coffee, and tobacco. Absorptiometric studies, which have minimal radiation risk, are one of the more reliable methods to identify women with osteoporosis, whereas ordinary roentgenographic methods are relatively inaccurate for this purpose. Therapeutically, we recommend cyclic estrogen combined with a progestogen, the latter drug given for ten days each month to minimize the chance of endometrial or mammary carcinoma, particularly if estrogen is to be given for five years or more. In addition, particular attention should be given to good nutrition, including 1 to 2 gm of calcium salts taken each evening, and adequate exercise. Intake of coffee and alcoholic beverages and use of cigarettes should be discontinued or minimized.

Age Factors↗
PubMed1983

Athletic activity and menstruation.

Menstrual dysfunction characterized by delayed menarche, irregular menses, or secondary amenorrhea often affects women who compete in athletics over a prolonged time. Loss of body fat and emotional stress are important predisposing factors. Under these circumstances, hypoestrogenism, an altered ratio of follicle-stimulating hormone to luteinizing hormone, and elevation of serum testosterone, prolactin, catecholamines, and opioids are fairly common. There is controversy over whether the working capacity and performance of the average woman varies appreciably during various phases of the menstrual cycle. Apparently, those who suffer from premenstrual tension do have a diminution in working capacity. Generally, the causes of menstrual dysfunction are the same for athletes and nonathletes, and there are currently no data to forbid athletes' training at any time during the menses. A gynecologic examination should be done before menstrual dysfunction is considered to be due to physical exercise. If this assumption is substantiated, and if amenorrhea persists for one year or more, a periodic estrogen-progesterone regimen should be offered to minimize vascular problems, osteoporosis, and stress fractures, and to protect the endometrium and ovarian function.

Adolescent↗