What is Osteoporosis?OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteo = Bone + Porosis = with holes. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become porotic and fragile. The bones are so weak that they can break from the simplest of falls.

How common is it?

• 1 in 3 women over 50 will have an osteoporotic fracture
• 1 in 5 men over 50 will have an osteoporotic fracture

Is there treatment for osteoporosis?

As we age we lose bone mass and the bone weakens. There is medication to stop the bone from losing its strength and some medications can even make the bone stronger. It is important to know that Vitamin D and Calcium are NOT enough!

Why is treatment of osteoporosis important?

After someone has a hip fracture, they are 3 times more likely to have another osteoporotic fracture. Taking medication to strengthen the bones is important to prevent future fractures which could be fatal.

What can I do to strengthen my bones?

In addition to Calcium, Vitamin D and proper medication, exercise helps to reduce bone loss and increase bone density.

 Is there a risk of making the bone brittle with the medication?

The risk of the bone breaking related to osteoporosis medication (bisphosphonates) is less than 3 in 100,000. This is about the same risk as getting killed by a meteor.

Please ask your doctor to start you on proper medication!

If you haven’t had a DEXA (bone density scan) in the last 2 years ask your doctor to order one!