MONDAY, Aug. 11 (HealthDay News) -- New Canadian research shows that long-term use of proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux, peptic ulcers and related disorders elevates the risk of osteoporosis-related fractures.

This is now the third large study finding an increased risk of such fractures in people who use these medications. This latest study, reported in the current issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, found the longest period of time from starting the drugs to seeing problems emerge.

THURSDAY, July 31 (HealthDay News) -- High levels of alkaline phosphatase -- a routinely measured marker of bone disease -- may signal an increased risk of death among patients receiving dialysis for chronic kidney disease, say U.S. researchers.

The study analyzed data on almost 74,000 hemodialysis patients during a three-year period. It found that patients with alkaline phosphatase levels above the upper limit of normal (>120 IU/L) had a 25 percent higher death rate. This association was significant across various subgroups of patients.

I’m sure you’ve seen one or more television ads for biphosphonate drugs such as Fosamax (alendronate) or Boniva (ibandronate) that picture healthy, vibrant midlife women selling you on the idea that you need a drug to ensure healthy bones for a lifetime. Would that life were that easy! Before taking or continuing to take one of these drugs, you need to know the full story. Then you can make a truly informed decision.

As women, we are probably all aware of the importance of getting an annual exam, and for those of us over 40, a yearly mammogram.

But what about an annual bone density test? How many of you out there who are over 40 have gotten one of those lately?