Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Several news outlets have reported that Japan's Emperor Akihito may be suffering osteoporosis or osteopenia in the aftermath of his treatment for prostrate cancer.
While osteoporosis is somewhat less common in men than women, some cancer treatments -- including the hormone therapy often used to combat prostrate cancer -- are believed to increase the risk of developing low bone mass. Apparently the Emperor is undertaking a careful regimen of daily exercise to increase his bone strength. We wish the Emperor the best of health as he continues to confront these ongoing challenges.
