Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become thin, weak and more likely to fracture. Osteoporosis occurs mostly in women after menopause.  In fact, one-third of a woman’s lifetime bone loss can occur in the first five years following menopause.  Fortunately, there are things you can do throughout life to help keep your bones strong.


Weakened Bones Can Break
Bones that are weakened from osteoporosis are more likely to break, even with minimal injury.  It is estimated that approximately 40% of 50-year-old women will have an osteoporosis-related fracture during their remaining lifetime.  The bones in your hip, spine and wrist are at greatest risk for breaking.


You Can Help Protect Yourself
The following steps can help you protect yourself from the effects of osteoporosis:
      • Get plenty of exercise.
      • Make sure your diet includes enough calcium and vitamin D.
      • Prevent accidents by living safely.
      • Ask your doctor whether a medication to prevent or treat osteoporosis,
         such as FOSAMAX® (alendronate sodium tablets), might be right for you. 


Risk Factors
To help prevent osteoporosis, you need to know what factors put you at increased risk.  Below are some of the risk factors:
      • Heredity
      • Lifestyle
      • Decreased bone mass
      • Weak muscles


Signs of Osteoporosis
Many of the signs of osteoporosis are not noticeable.  But over time, your bones become thinner and weaker.  Signs of osteoporosis can include:
      • Losing height over the years.
      • Certain types of back pain.
      • An upper back that is curved forward.
      • Breaking a bone in your hip, wrist or spine from minimal trauma


Reducing Risks
Talk with your health care provider about ways to reduce the risk factors that you can control.  That way, you can either help prevent the disease or live with it safely.

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