Each May, we observe Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, a vital time to focus attention on bone health and the often silent condition that affects millions of Americans—osteoporosis.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), osteoporosis affects about 10 million Americans, with 44 million more at risk due to low bone density.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle—so brittle that a fall or even mild stress, like bending over or coughing, can cause a fracture. It's often called a "silent disease" because many people don't know they have it until a fracture occurs.
Risk Factors
While osteoporosis can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk:
- Age: Risk increases as you get older.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis, especially after menopause.
- Family History: A family history of fractures or osteoporosis increases your risk.
- Body Frame Size: People with small body frames tend to have a higher risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, lack of physical activity, and diets low in calcium or vitamin D can contribute to bone loss.
- Medical Conditions and Medications: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or long-term use of corticosteroids, can increase risk.
Prevention
Prevention starts early, but it's never too late to make changes for better bone health. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) offers these evidence-based strategies:
- Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D: Adults need about 1,000–1,200 mg of calcium and 600–800 IU of vitamin D daily.
- Engage in Weight-Bearing Exercise: Activities such as walking, dancing, or lifting weights help strengthen bones.
- Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: These substances can reduce bone mass.
- Screening: Women aged 65 and older—and younger women with risk factors—should get screened.
Symptoms
Osteoporosis is often undetected until a fracture occurs, but there are signs that may point to bone loss:
- Back pain, often caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
- Loss of height over time
- A stooped posture
- Bone fractures that occur more easily than expected
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or have risk factors, talk to your doctor about bone density testing.
Take Action
Osteoporosis is preventable and treatable. During Osteoporosis Awareness Month, take a moment to assess your bone health or that of a loved one. Simple steps today can prevent serious health complications tomorrow.
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