Introduction to Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a serious disease that affects the bones. It can strike people of any age, but is more prevalent in older people. The condition can be prevented by exercising regularly and making some other lifestyle changes.

Definition

• Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease whereby bones become porous and lose their density to a point where fractures can occur with mild stress, particularly in the hip, wrist and spine.

Prevalence

• Approximately 10 million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis. An estimated 34 million are at risk of developing the disease due to low bone mass.

Symptoms

• Bone loss usually occurs without any symptoms, and osteoporosis can reach an advanced stage before symptoms present themselves. Late symptoms include a stooped posture or bone fractures after minor stress.

Risk Factors

• Family history, old age, small frame and ethnicity increase risk. Risk can be reduced by abstaining from caffeinated sodas, not smoking, regular exercise and reducing alcohol consumption.

Prevention

• Lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D are changes you can adopt to reduce your risk of osteoporosis.