Osteoporosis
Today, osteoporosis is a major
public health threat for 25 million
Americans, 80 percent of whom are
women. It is estimated that in the
U.S., 7 to 8 million individuals
already have the disease and 17
million more have low bone mass,
placing them at increased risk for
osteoporosis and the fractures it
causes. Known as "the silent thief,"
osteoporosis progresses without
symptoms or pain until bones start
to break, generally in the hip,
spine, or wrist.
Osteoporosis is a complex disease
and not all of its causes are known.
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 action to prevent it now.
Osteoporosis is preventable if
bone loss is detected early. If the
questions on the
test suggest that you are at
risk for developing osteoporosis,
see your physician. Your physician
may recommend that you have a bone
mass measurement test. This test
will safely and accurately measure
your bone density and reliably
predict your risk of future
fracture.
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.
The National Osteoporosis
Foundation is the nation's leading
source for patients and health care
professionals seeking up-to-date,
medically sound information and
educational materials on the causes,
prevention, detection, and treatment
of osteoporosis. Please
contact us for more information
on osteoporosis or to find out how
you can join us in the fight against
this devastating disease.
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