Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease that affects both men and women, usually as they grow older.

The disease often develops unnoticed over many years, with no symptoms or discomfort, until a fracture occurs. It is characterized by a loss of bone mass and a change in bone structure. As bones grow weaker and more brittle they become more susceptible to fractures, which can often be debilitating.

There are a number of measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis. To maintain strong, healthy bones:

• Make sure there is enough calcium in your diet. Women need 1000 mg of calcium per day (1500 mg for women if you are postmenopausal).
• Make sure there is enough Vitamin D in your diet. Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption and also helps to maintain muscle strength. Women should get 400IU per day (600-800 IU per day after age 60).
• Engage in regular exercise, especially weight-bearing exercise. The risk of osteoporosis is lower for women who are active, and especially for those who engage in weight-bearing activities at least three times a week.
• Eliminate lifestyle choices that increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. Cigarette smoking and alcohol abuse can contribute to a loss of bone mass.

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are a number of medications available to slow, and in some cases stop, its progression. Your health care provider can advise you as to which osteoporosis medications and therapies are right for you.