Osteoporosis Health Center
Overview & Facts
Learn about osteoporosis and take action against this silent disease.You may not know you have it until your thinned, weakened bones fracture in a bump or fall.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis weakens bones and increases the risk of unexpected fractures. Serious consequences can occur with some fractures. Read this overview article about osteoporosis and how to keep your bones strong.
Your bones may be at risk: With the aging of America, the number of people with osteoporosis- related fractures will increase. Read these basic facts about osteoporosis and health.
Want to see what a bone with osteoporosis looks like, compared to a healthy bone? This link will show you photos of normal and osteoporotic bone.
Causes
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease. It can be prevented with a healthy diet and staying physically active. Learn about factors that can make bones stronger or weaker.
Most spinal compression fractures are never diagnosed because many patients and families think the back pain is merely a sign of aging and arthritis. These weakened bones cause the spine to collapse. Read more.
Are You at Risk?
It’s never too early or too late to address bone health. Read these articles to check your osteoporosis risk.
Read more on the link between smoking, drinking and osteoporosis.
Is exercise ever a problem? When a woman doesn’t get her periods and she’s not pregnant or menopausal, she may be putting herself at risk for several health problems including thinned bones. Her lower estrogen levels can lead to osteoporosis, making it more likely to break.
Different health conditions may affect osteoporosis risk in different ways, as these articles explain.
Get the facts.
Prevention
Osteoporosis can be prevented. People of all ages can get involved in protecting their bones. Exercise and a healthy diet can cut osteoporosis risk. Here are some tips for keeping your bones strong.
Dairy products are rich in calcium, which is essential for building and maintaining strong bones. Find out where to get it and how much you need here.
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. And we need more vitamin D as we get older. Are you getting enough? If your diet doesn’t contain sufficient amounts of this bone saver, supplements may help. Read about vitamin D deficiency.
If you're at high risk for compression fractures, it's critical to take action. Read more.
