Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Surgeon General's Report
Myths and Realities of Bone Health
Over several decades, scientists have learned a significant
amount about the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of bone
disease. Our next and most critical step is to transfer this
knowledge from the research laboratories to the general
population.�
Myth: Only a small segment of the population suffers from
osteoporosis or other bone diseases.
Reality: Osteoporosis is a silent condition that affects millions
of Americans. Ten million Americans over age 50 have osteoporosis,
the most common bone disease.Another 34 million Americans have low
bone mass. If we do not take immediate action, by 2020, half of all
Americans over age 50 will have weak bones from osteoporosis and
low bone mass.
Myth: Osteoporosis is only a problem for older White women.
Reality: One of the most dangerous myths about osteoporosis
is that only women need to worry about bone health. Osteoporosis
affects men and women of all races. While bone weakness is
manifested in older Americans, strong bones begin in childhood.
Americans of all ages must take steps to protect their bone health.
Myth: Bone fractures from falls or injuries have nothing to do
with osteoporosis.
Reality: Fractures in individuals over the age of 50 can be
the first sign of weak bones from osteoporosis or low bone mass.
Each year, 1.5 million older Americans suffer a fracture due to
bone disease.
Myth: Diagnosing osteoporosis or other bone diseases is a lengthy
and painful process.
Reality: A bone density test, the primary test that is used to
screen for osteoporosis, is a simple and painless procedure that
takes less than 5-10 minutes to complete.
Myth: Osteoporosis cannot be prevented.
Reality: Individuals can do a lot to promote their bone
health, beginning in childhood and continuing into old age.
With proper nutrition, physical activity and medical
attention, Americans can have strong bones and live longer,
healthier lives.
Myth: Once you get osteoporosis, nothing can be done to treat
it.
Reality: If diagnosed, osteoporosis can be treated with new
drugs that help prevent bone loss and rebuild bone. These can help
to prevent life-threatening and painful fractures.
Myth: Osteoporosis and other bone diseases have no physical
consequences.
Reality: Osteoporosis and bone disease often result in painful and
debilitating fractures. A fracture can lead to a downward spiral in
physical and mental health that, for some people, can even result
in death. The risk of death is especially high during the first
year after the fracture. Many individuals with fractures experience
significant pain, loss of height, and may lose their ability to
dress themselves, stand up, and walk. Of those who remain
independent, a fracture often leads to a reduced quality of life.
Myth: There are no emotional consequences from osteoporosis and
other bone diseases.
Reality: Fractures may lead to a loss of self-esteem and body
image, and a change in mood, all of which cause significant anxiety
and depression. Individuals who have been immobilized by a fracture
may fear they will fall again and suffer additional fractures.
Call toll free 1-866-718-BONE to order a free publication
from the Surgeon General about bone health.�� For more
information visit www.surgeongeneral.gov
Citation
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Bone Health and
Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General. U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, Office of the Surgeon General, 2004.
Last revised: January 4, 2007
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