Lactose and Calcium Absorption in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

• The prevalence of lactase deficiency and the relationship between lactose and calcium malabsorption in postmenopausal osteoporosis has been assessed in 46 subjects. Malabsorption of lactose occurred in 25 (54%) of the subjects and was associated with a significantly lower milk intake. Malabsorption of calcium occurred in 11 (44%) of the lactase-deficient subjects and in 11 (52%) of normal lactose absorbers. There was no relationship between lactose and calcium malabsorption. Vertebral and forearm mineral densities were not significantly different between normal lactose absorbers and lactase-deficient subjects. ( Arch Intern Med 1987;147:534-536)