Every year, about 1.5 million people in the United States break a bone that has been weakened by osteoporosis. And the disease – in which bone tissue is not replaced as rapidly as it naturally breaks down – affects more women than men. About four of every 10 white women who are at least 50 years old will eventually break a hip, spine or wrist. (1)
But while the disease is more common among white women, it affects men and women of all races. What’s worse, many people don’t even know they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. For people who are particularly frail or elderly, a broken bone can lead to a deterioration in their physical and mental health that leads to death, particularly within the first year after a fracture. (1)
“That’s the bad news,” said Dr. Karl L. Insogna, a Professor of Medicine at Yale Medical School and Director of Yale Bone Center. “The good news is that there are many things girls can do from a very young age to help prevent the development of osteoporosis. And even for adults, it’s never too late to start doing the right things.”
Women are born with less bone mass than men, and they lose it faster, especially after menopause. White women in particular are highly susceptible to rapid loss of bone density. According to a 1998 study, white women lose 1/3 of their bone mass density between the ages of 20 and 80. Men over that same period lose only 1/4 of their bone mass density. (2)
Dr. Insogna said the goal is to act as early as possible.
“Bones need calcium for regular growth and maintenance,” he said. “And the body needs vitamin D to help absorb that calcium. The sun’s rays on the skin create vitamin D, though for many people it’s not advisable or practical to be regularly exposed to the sun, and they should eat foods rich in vitamin D instead.”
Exercise also plays an important role in building core strength and balance to reduce the risk of falling. Aerobic exercise can help, but Dr. Insogna said it’s more important to maintain balance and strengthen muscles in the abdomen, back, and pelvis.
The good news is that there are many things girls can do from a very young age to help prevent the development of osteoporosis. And even for adults, it’s never too late to start doing the right things.
Dr. Karl L. Insogna
After menopause, women should see their health care provider about a bone mineral density test to see if they are on track for avoiding osteoporosis.
“So many of my patients are stunned to learn they have osteoporosis,” Insogna said. “But with the proper diet and regular exercise, it’s something many people can avoid.”
This video was supported in part by The Grace J. Fippinger Foundation.
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