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Osteoporosis Myths

As one of the most common diseases around, osteoporosis is the subject of a number of myths. It is very important to separate fact from fiction about this preventable yet serious medical condition.

  1. I Will Get Osteoporosis Since It Runs in My Family

    • Granted, your chances of getting osteoporosis increase if a family member is afflicted. But your chances of preventing it increase when you take care of you health via diet and exercise--starting ... now.

    Only Old People Get Osteoporosis

    • That is not necessarily true. Some people can start experiencing bone loss as early as 25.

    Osteoporosis Is Not a Serious Disease

    • Yes, it is. It affects more than 75 million people in the United States, Europe and Japan, with more than 200 million at the immediate precursor to the disease: osteopenia. What's even scarier about osteoporosis is that it shows no symptoms until the first bone fracture.

    Only Whites and Asians Get Osteoporosis

    • Not true. Whites and Asians are at higher risk, but that does not mean other races and ethnicities are automatically spared, and it would be a big mistake to neglect self-care.

    Drinking Milk Will Ward Off Osteoporosis

    • Not just milk: There are 17 other nutrients needed to accomplish that. Plus, diet, exercise are important, and other health measures should be taken as well.

    I Have Osteoporosis and There Is Nothing I Can Do About It

    • Quite the contrary: There are prescribed drugs to slow down progressive bone thinning, and weight lifting can maintain and build up bone mass. Your life doesn't need to end just because you have osteoporosis.

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