Osteoporosis Facts at a Glance

Osteoporosis At A Glance

• Osteoporosis is a condition of increased susceptibility to fracture due to fragile bone.
• Osteoporosis weakens bone, and increases risk of bone fracture.
• Bone mass (bone density) decreases after age 35 years, and decreases more rapidly in women after menopause.
• Key risk factors for osteoporosis include genetic factors, lack of exercise, lack of calcium and vitamin D, personal history of fracture as an adult, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, low body weight, and family history of osteoporosis.
• Patients with osteoporosis have no symptoms until bone fractures occur.
• Diagnosis can be suggested by x-rays and confirmed by using tests to measure bone density.
• Treatments for osteoporosis, in addition to prescription osteoporosis medications, include stopping use of alcohol and cigarettes, and assuring adequate exercise, calcium, and vitamin D.