Osteoporosis

About Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that thins and weakens the bones. Your bones become fragile and break easily, especially the bones in the hip, spine, and wrist.

Anyone can develop osteoporosis, but it is more common in older women. Risk factors include age; being small and thin; a family history of osteoporosis; certain medicines; or being a white or Asian woman.

Osteoporosis is a silent disease. You might not know you have it until you break a bone. 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. It is also important to try to avoid falling down. Falls are the number one cause of fractures in older adults. If needed, medicines can also help.

Source:  Medlineplus.gov