Six Myths of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a major health issue affecting millions of people each year. It is a condition that causes bones in the body to become porous and weakened, increasing the risk of fracture. How can you prevent osteoporosis? Know the facts and your level of risk. Here are some common debunked myths surrounding the disease:

It's a natural part of aging.  While osteoporosis and fractures are more common as you get older, there are actually a lot of things you can do to prevent fractures. Some of which include getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet and, of course, exercise.

It only affects women. While it is true that more woman than men develop osteoporosis, men are affected. Studies show that about 1 in 5 American men suffer from osteoporosis (compared to 1 in 3 women).

Worry once you get older:  It’s never too early to start to build bone density and develop the best possible body for the rest of your life. Did you know that 90 percent of bone mass is acquired by age 18 in girls and age 20 in boys? Start prevention early!

Only worry about broken bones:  Osteoporosis is a serious and sometimes fatal condition and is the leading cause of hip fracture. Unfortunately, 25 percent of people die within the first 6 to 12 months after a hip fracture because it can cause health issues that often include arrhythmias, anesthesia complications, pneumonia, heart attacks and infections in older adults.

You can feel bones get weaker:  Not exactly - you can’t really see or feel oncoming osteoporosis. You may not even know you have it until you break a bone and get checked out by a healthcare professional.

Pourous bones won’t get stronger:  Unfortunately, someone with osteoporosis is never going to return to the “normal” range of bone density. However, it is possible to rebuild bones with osteoporosis medications and dietary supplements that work to increase the density in your bones by a few percent each year.

Start prevention early. Talk to your doctor to assess your risk and what you can do to keep your bones healthy as you age today!