Fat and bone: An odd couple

Both obesity and osteoporosis have become major health issues around the world, with prevalence increasing considerably over the last few decades and giving rise to multiple metabolic co-morbidities. Patients with a high BMI may have greater bone fragility and a higher risk of fracture. However, the interaction between adipose tissue and bone is complex, and the characteristics of this fat-bone system are still poorly understood. 

In this course, Professor Duque will explain what is currently known about the effects of high body fat and bone marrow adiposity on bone health. He will describe the mechanical, biochemical, and hormonal mechanisms involved in the association between adipose tissue and bone and present recommendations for the management of osteoporosis in individuals living with obesity.

Key Learning Objectives of this course include:

• To review the interactions between adipose tissue and bone tissue, particularly in the context of bone marrow adiposity and obesity
• To gain a better understanding of the implications of the relationship between these two tissues
• To learn about recommendations for the clinical management of obese people at risk of fragility fractures