Osteoporosis: Can it happen to you?

Today osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, 80% of whom are women. It is estimated that in the U.S., 10 million individuals already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis and the fractures it causes. Known as the "silent thief," osteoporosis progresses without symptoms or pain until bones start to break, generally in the hip, spine or wrist.

Complete the following questionnaire to determine your risk for developing osteoporosis.

Do you have a small, thin frame?
YES NO

Are you of Caucasian, Asian, African American or Hispanic descent?
YES NO

Have you or a member of your immediate family broken a bone as an adult?
YES NO

Are you a postmenopausal woman?
YES NO

Have you had an early or surgically-induced menopause?
YES NO

Have you had abnormal absence of menstrual periods before menopause?
YES NO

Are you a male with low testosterone levels?
YES NO

Have you been taking certain medications for prolonged periods such as anticonvulsants or cortisone-like drugs for asthma, arthritis or other diseases?
YES NO

Has your lifetime diet been low in dairy products and other sources of calcium?
YES NO

Do you have a physically inactive lifestyle?
YES NO

Do you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol in excess?
YES NO

Do you have a family history of osteoporosis?
YES NO

Have you been diagnosed with osteopenia or low bone mass?
YES NO

The more times you answer "yes," the greater your risk for developing osteoporosis. See your physician or contact the National Osteoporosis Foundation for more information.

Test courtesy of the National Osteoporosis Foundation, (202) 223-2226.

Osteoporosis is a complex disease: and not all of its causes are known, however, when certain risk factors are present, your likelihood of developing osteoporosis is increased. Therefore, it is important for you to determine your risk of developing osteoporosis and take action to prevent it now.

Osteoporosis is treatable, if bone loss is detected early. If the questions suggest that you are at risk for developing osteoporosis, see your physician. Your physician may recommend that you have a bone mass measurement test. This test will safely and accurately measure your bone density and reliably predict your risk of future fracture.

If you already have osteoporosis, you can live actively and comfortably by seeking proper medical care and making some adjustment to your lifestyle. Your physician may prescribe a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, a regular program of weight-bearing exercise and medical treatment.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation is the nation's leading authority for patients and healthcare professionals seeking up-to-date, medically sound information and educational materials on the causes, prevention, detection and treatment of osteoporosis. Please contact us for more information on osteoporosis or to find out how you can join us in the fight against this devastating disease.