Protect Yourself from Bone Loss

Osteoporosis, the most common bone disease, weakens bones and increases the risk of unexpected fractures. Serious consequences can occur with some fractures.  It can be prevented with a healthy diet and staying physically active. 

What are the risk factors for osteoporosis?

• Age. After maximum bone density and strength is reached (generally around age 30), bone mass begins to decline naturally with age.
• Gender. Women over the age of 50 have the greatest risk of developing osteoporosis. In fact, women are four times more likely than men to develop it. Women’s lighter, thinner bones and longer life spans are part of the reason they have a higher risk.
• Ethnicity. Research has shown that Caucasian and Asian women are more likely to develop osteoporosis. Additionally, hip fractures are twice as likely to occur in Caucasian women as in African-American women.
• Bone structure and body weight. Petite and thin women have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis. One reason is that they have less bone to lose than women with more body weight and larger frames. Similarly, small-boned, thin men are at greater risk than men with larger frames and more body weight.
• Family history. Heredity is one of the most important risk factors for osteoporosis. If your parents or grandparents have had any signs of osteoporosis, such as a fractured hip after a minor fall, you may be at greater risk of developing the disease.
• Prior history of fracture/bone breakage.
• Certain medications. The use of some medications, for instance the long-term use of steroids (such as Prednisone), can also increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.

How can I protect myself?

• Assess your risk factors
• Make sure you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D
• Avoid alcohol and quit smoking
• Get plenty of exercise & add weight-bearing exercise to your routine
• Prevent accidents by living safely

Depending on your specific risk factors, talk to your doctor about a bone density test.  For more information, call The National Osteoporosis Foundation at 1-800-223-9994 or click http://www.nof.org/.

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