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It’s something we rarely discuss: the
health of our bones. But millions of Americans today
suffer from bone diseases such as osteoporosis, and
without concerted effort, by 2020 half of all Americans
over 50 will be at risk.
In response to the growing crisis, the Surgeon General
has issued a report on our nation’s bone health and
he offers some tips for keeping your bones healthy.
Abby Perelman never thought she’d have
osteoporosis. But at the age of 47, she was
diagnosed with the disease.
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Abby Perelman
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“When the test results came back positive I was
very, very surprised. I couldn’t believe that I had
osteoporosis because I felt good and I looked good.”
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Often, bone disease goes undetected until it’s
too late…that’s one reason why the Surgeon
General is releasing Bone health and Osteoporosis, a new
report that details just how widespread the condition
is. And a companion piece – What It Means To
You.
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Vice Admiral Richard Carmona
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“Bone disease, especially osteoporosis, leads to a
downward spiral in physical health and quality of life.
Many people lose their ability to walk, dress themselves
or they die early.”
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Lawrence Raisz, M.D.
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“Osteoporosis is a silent disease until you
fracture. But it’s before you fracture that you want
to do something about it.”
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For all the bad news, there’s a great deal of
hope because osteoporosis is preventable and
treatable. A quick and painless test is available to
measure bone density, and new drugs are available to treat
osteoporosis and other bone diseases before
life-threatening fractures occur.
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Vice Admiral Richard Carmona
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“Thirty years ago, doctors thought weak bones and
osteoporosis were a natural part of aging, but today we
know that strong bones begin in childhood, and even adults
can take steps to keep their bones healthy.”
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The simple steps: Adults should get at least 30
minutes of daily physical activity; children need 60
minutes, with weight-bearing activities to improve
strength and balance; get the recommended amount of
calcium and vitamin D; take steps to minimize the risk of
falls. And finally, talk to your doctor about your
risk factors.
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Lawrence Raisz, M.D.
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“You’re never too young or too old to improve
your bone health.”
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Abby Perelman
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“I really wasn’t doing very much to prevent
osteoporosis. I wasn’t taking calcium, I
wasn’t monitoring my vitamin D.”
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Those are preventive measures Abby now encourages
others to take.
For a free copy of the Surgeon General’s guide on
bone health call this toll-free number: 1-866-718-BONE or
visit www.SurgeonGeneral.gov.
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