Osteoporosis
Definition of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is bone that has become weakened as a result of decreased bone density. This thin, fragile bone is at risk for fracture. Most of these fractures occur in the wrist, spine and hip.
Definition of Osteopenia
Osteopenia is low bone density, which may lead up to osteoporsis.
Why We Need to Prevent Osteoporsis
Osteoporsis is a common condition in older women and is a serious health threat.
Women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the decade following menopause. Half of all women over the age of 50 will have an osteoporosis fracture before they die.
The risk of a hip fracture is equal to woman’s combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer. Among people over 50 who fracture a hip, 20% die within a year. Another 25% require long term care in a nursing home or assisted living facility.
Most of us do not begin to worry about osteoporosis until it’s too late. However, it is preventable, especially if we do the right things when we are young. A healthy diet and lifestyle is all it takes.
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
Learn about the risk factors which you can control and those that you cannot.
Testing for Osteoporosis
Bone Mineral Density Testing ( BMD) is the best way to tell if you have bone loss.
Treatment of Osteoporosis
Calcium is vital in preventing and treating osteoporosis.
Changes in lifestyle aid in treatment. Prescription drugs are available to inhibit bone loss and promote bone formation.
Osteoporosis Resource Center
Learn more about osteoporosis and related bone diseases from the National Institutes of Health.
One Response to “Osteoporosis”
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I would like to know more about estrogen mimickers in real ale, as I have heard that this could be beneficial in reducing bone density and other problems relating to the menopause.
Conversely, I have heard that these estrogen mimickers could lead to breast cancer.
Please could you give further information.
Kind regards
Deborah Rendall