Final answer:
It's true that long-term use of prednisone for treating rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, due to the effects of corticosteroids on bone resorption and formation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient prescribed prednisone repeatedly for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may indeed be at risk for developing osteoporosis. This is a true statement. Prednisone is a type of corticosteroid and long-term use can lead to bone density loss, which increases the risk of osteoporosis. This is because corticosteroids can decrease the absorption of calcium and inhibit new bone formation. At the same time, they increase bone resorption which can outpace the production of new bone, thereby weakening the bones and increasing susceptibility to fractures.
Osteoporosis is characterized by an imbalance in the activity of osteoclasts (cells responsible for bone resorption) and osteoblasts (cells responsible for bone formation). In osteoporosis, the activity of osteoclasts outweighs that of osteoblasts, leading to bone fragility.
To mitigate these risks, those on long-term corticosteroid therapy, like prednisone, are often monitored for bone density and may be prescribed other drugs such as bisphosphonates to help preserve bone mass. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as increased physical activity, smoking cessation, and proper nutrition including adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can further help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.