Odds are that you know someone with osteoporosis. Half of all women over 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. A woman s risk of hip fracture is equal to her combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer. By knowing her risk for osteoporosis, a woman can make the most informed choices about her long-term health. Building strong bones, especially before the age of 30, can be the best defense against developing osteoporosis, and a healthy lifestyle can be critically important for keeping bones strong.
Osteoporosis is largely preventable for most people.
Prevention of this disease is very important because, while there are treatments for osteoporosis, there is currently no cure. A healthy lifestyle with no smoking and limited alcohol intake And bone density testing and medications when appropriate Exercise is important to good bone health. If you exercise regularly in childhood and adolescence, you are more likely to reach your peak bone density than those who are inactive. If you have been sedentary most of your adult life, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program. I urged everyone to participate in the September 18 event in Washington, and eight of my staffers laced up their walking shoes to support osteoporosis research and education.