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May is Women’s Health Month. Fidelis Care Medical Director Dr. Alan Wieder answered common questions about osteoporosis.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a medical condition where bones become weak and are more likely to break. The bones that are most commonly affected are the hips, the spine, and the wrists. Osteoporosis occurs when old bone cells are removed faster than they can be replaced by new bone cells. This causes bones to be less dense, weaker, and more likely to break.

How common is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is more common in women than men. In New York State, at least 3 million women and men over the age of 50 either have osteoporosis or are at high risk of developing osteoporosis.

What are risk factors for osteoporosis?
Anyone over the age of 50 is at increased risk of osteoporosis. Women are at higher risk than men. Other risk factors include:

• Not getting enough exercise
• Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet
• People with a family history of osteoporosis
• Regularly drinking alcohol
• Smoking or using tobacco products
• Certain health conditions and medications
• Weight-loss surgery
• Certain types of cancer treatments

What are symptoms of osteoporosis?

There are no specific symptoms. Signs of osteoporosis may include a loss of height, or a change in your posture such as stooping or bending over. The diagnosis is usually made by bone imaging tests or after you have suffered a broken bone from osteoporosis.

How do I get tested for osteoporosis?

Your provider may call for a bone density test. This test determines the strength of your bones. It measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones.

Are there treatments for osteoporosis?
Yes. Treatments include:

• Exercises such as walking, yoga, and tai chi can strengthen your bones and muscles.
• Maintain a diet that includes calcium and vitamin D. These can be found in dairy products (milk, yogurt, certain hard cheeses) and in certain fruits and vegetables. Your healthcare provider can tell you if you would benefit from calcium and/or vitamin D supplements.
• Talk to your provider about medications that might help you.

When should I get tested?

Screening for osteoporosis is recommended for women who are 65 years or older, or earlier if certain risk factors are present. Ask your provider about when you should start getting tested for osteoporosis. 

Remember, catching osteoporosis early is important. Talk to your provider about ways to lower your risk of osteoporosis.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “Does Osteoporosis Run in Your Family?” May 20, 2022
2. Cleveland Clinic “Osteoporosis” July, 20, 2023
3. International Osteoporosis Foundation, 2024