Osteoporosis

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A debilitating disease that can be prevented and treated

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. These broken bones, also known as fractures, occur typically in the hip, spine, and wrist.

Any bone can be affected, but of special concern are fractures of the hip and spine. A hip fracture almost always requires hospitalization and major surgery. It can impair a person's ability to walk unassisted and may cause prolonged or permanent disability or even death. Spinal or vertebral fractures also have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain, and deformity.

Millions of Americans are at risk. While women are four times more likely than men to develop the disease, men also suffer from osteoporosis.

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To find out if you are at risk, try the simple assessment below:

Question Yes No 1. Do you have a small, thin frame, or are you Caucasian or Asian? 2. Do you have a family history of osteoporosis? 3. Are you a postmenopausal woman? 4. Have you had an early or surgically induced menopause? 5. Have you been taking excessive thyroid medication or high doses of cortisone-like drugs for asthma, arthritis, or cancer? 6. Is your diet low in dairy products and other sources of calcium? 7. Are you physically inactive? 8. Do you smoke cigarettes or drink in excess?

The more times you answer "yes," the greater your risk for developing osteoporosis. See your physician if you have any questions or concerns arise from this risk assessment.

Some more facts

• The causes of osteoporosis are unknown. However, when certain risk factors are present, your likelihood of developing osteoporosis is increased. Therefore, it is important for you to determine your risk for developing osteoporosis, and take preventive steps.
• Osteoporosis is preventable if bone loss is detected early, If the questions on this card suggest that you are at risk for developing osteoporosis, see your physician. Your physician may recommend that you have a bone mass measurement test, which safely and accurately measures the amount of bone mass in your hip, spine, or wrist.
• If you already have osteoporosis, you can live actively and comfortably by seeking proper medical care and making some adjustments to your lifestyle. Your physician may prescribe a diet rich in calcium, a regular program of weight-bearing exercise, and medical treatment.

More information is available from the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Contact the Foundation at 800-223-9994, or:

National Osteoporosis Foundation
1150 17th Street NW Suite 500
Washington, DC 20036

 

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