Dr. Watson Talks Bones

By: Dr. Lasaundra Watson, Peak Vista, for Colorado Springs Senior Magazine

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become weak and can break from a minor fall or in serious cases, from as simple an action as a sneeze. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. These broken bones, also known as fractures, typically occur in the hip, spine, and wrist.

WHO’S AT RISK?

Fifty-five percent of Americans, 50 years of age and older, are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Currently 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease, and 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis. Women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the five to seven years after menopause, making them more susceptible to osteoporosis. While women are four times more likely than men to develop the disease, men also suffer from osteoporosis.

People cannot feel their bones getting weaker and may not know that they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. About 85 – 90% of adult bone mass is acquired by age 18 in girls, and age 20 in boys. Building strong bones during childhood and adolescence can help to prevent osteoporosis later in life.

FIVE STEPS TO BETTER BONE HEALTH AND THE PREVENTION OF OSTEOPOROSIS

  1. Get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
  2. Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise.
  3. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
  4. Have a bone density test and take medication when appropriate.
  5. Talk to your doctor about bone health.

Although there is not a cure for osteoporosis, it can be treated. For more information about osteoporosis and management of this disease, contact Peak Vista Senior Health. www.peakvista.org.