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The Silent Disease—Osteoporosis By Carol Hirn, RN/BSN with Network Health
O
steoporosis may affect more than half the population in the United States at some time in their lives. You may hear it referred to as “brittle bones” or “weak bones.” Osteoporosis is also often called the “silent disease” because people usually have no symptoms and may not know they have osteoporosis. The weakening of their bones, however, significantly increases their risk for an injury or fall causing a broken bone.
Both men and women can have osteoporosis, but here are some factors that put you at higher risk.
GENDER
AGE
It’s more common in women.
BODY SIZE
The older you are, the Small, thin women higher your risk. are at greater risk.
ETHNICITY
FAMILY HISTORY
White and Asian women are at highest risk.
Osteoporosis tends to run in families.
A healthy lifestyle can help decrease your risk
Eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Low fat milk, yogurt and cheese as well as foods with added calcium—orange juice, cereals and breads—are all good sources. Ask your personal doctor if a Vitamin D or calcium supplement is right for you.
Exercise, especially weight bearing exercise such as walking, hiking, dancing and lifting weights, can all help increase bone strength.
Limit your alcohol intake.
Don’t smoke, or take steps to quit smoking.
To help minimize the effects of falls or fractures, your doctor may recommend a bone density test or medications to help protect your bone strength.
WHAT’S THAT? A BONE DENSITY TEST measures the amount of bone mineral in your bone tissue, determining the density of bones and the chances of the bone being broken. A bone density test is recommended for most women age 65 or older, or younger for those at risk and/or those who have had a recent fracture.
Visit www.goemmi.com/NHP-BONE for more information on osteoporosis. 88 || C Concierge oncierge
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