Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a disease that causes a person's bones to become so weak that they can break during normal daily activities. Osteoporosis affects almost 25 million older Americans, though women are five times more likely to develop the disease than men. In women, osteoporosis is more common after menopause, when the body reduces the production of estrogen. Risk factors include a slight body frame, Asian or European heritage, little or no weight-bearing exercise and a family history of the disease. Women who smoke or drink are also at greater risk.
Osteoporosis develops over a period of years - often without any outward symptoms.
The first signs may be a loss of height, a curved upper back, back pain or frequently broken bones. While weakening bones are a natural part of the aging process, some lifestyle modifications may delay the development of osteoporosis. These include getting regular weight-bearing exercise, eating a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D, reduction of caffeine in the diet, lessening or stopping smoking or drinking, and estrogen replacement therapy during menopause. The team structure of the Arthritis Center at Harbor Hospital features leading rhuematologists and orthopedic experts working together to help bring relief to people with arthritis and osteoporosis. In addition to having highly skilled physicians, the Arthritis Center also utilizes the latest high-tech advancements such as a DEXA scan table for the early diagnosis of osteoporosis.