Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bone loss.  Over time, the bones become thinner and weaker.  As bones thin, they are more likely to break.  Hip and spinal fractures can lead to permanent disability, pain, or even death.  Osteoporosis affects 25 million people in the United States today.  Millions more are at risk.

Osteoporosis is more common in women than men, and it most often strikes older women.  However, osteoporosis can affect people of all ages.  Some of the risk factors for osteoporosis are:

• A broken bone after age 50

• Menopause

• Caucasian or Asian                                         

• Small-boned or thin

• Lack of sufficient calcium or vitamin D

• Lack of weight-bearing exercise

• Drugs, like oral steroids or anti-seizure medication

• Family history of fractures

• Smoking or excessive alcohol use

The good news is that osteoporosis is preventable.  With bone-healthy foods, exercise, and bone-enhancing medicines, you can slow or stop bone loss.  Ask your health care provider for more information about your risk for osteoporosis and what you can do to keep your bones strong.