Frequent signs and symptoms of osteoporosis include backache, deformed spinal column with bumps, loss of height and fractures occurring with minor injuries. Early on you may have no symptoms at all. Prevention of osteoporosis is the most important and cost-effective approach to the disease. Risk factors for developing osteoporosis include age, genetics, race, calcium intake, smoking and alcohol consumption. Prevention of the disease targets these areas.
Osteoporosis affects more women than men.
It most often affects women after menopause. From age 35 to menopause, there is a steady decline of bone mass. Estrogen replacement therapy has been the therapy of choice for osteoporosis, yet many patients are unwilling or unable to take hormones. There are other treatments or preventative actions that may be taken in these cases. Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, is a very helpful preventative measure.