Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that thins and weakens bones in some or all of the skeletal structure. Bones become fragile and may break easily, especially the hip, spine, and wrist bones. After age 50, one in two women and one in four men will have an osteoporosis-related fracture.
Though common in older women, anyone can develop osteoporosis. Risk factors include:
- Getting older
- Being small and thin
- Having a family history of osteoporosis
- Taking certain medications
- Being a white or Asian woman
- Having a low bone density
Some medical conditions and medications can increase your risk. If you have any of the following conditions related to irregular hormone levels, you and your healthcare provider might consider early screening for osteoporosis.
- An overactive thyroid, parathyroid, or adrenal glands
- History of bariatric (weight loss) surgery or organ transplant
- Hormone treatment for breast or prostate cancer or a history of missed periods
- Celiac disease, or inflammatory bowel disease
- Blood diseases, including multiple myeloma
Osteoporosis is a silent disease, so you should get screened if any of the risk factors apply to you. A bone mineral density test is the best way to check your bone health.
To keep bones strong, eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, exercise, and do not smoke. If needed, medications can also help. It is also essential to try to avoid falling down. Falls are the number one cause of fractures in older adults.
