Thomasville Medical Center 
Osteoporosis
| Osteoporosis affects men and women, but is most prevalent in women. More than 50 percent of adult women of age 50 in the United States are already affected by this disease. |
Osteoporosis is a disease that affects the quantity and quality of your bones. It is a debilitating condition in which bones become fragile and are easily fractured. Although there can be outward signs such as a forward curving of the neck and spine or a decrease in height someone suffering from osteoporosis usually has no symptoms until a break occurs.
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Do you have specific questions about osteoporosis? Visit our Health Library for answers. |
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Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
- Gender: Women have a much greater chance of developing osteoporosis due to thinner, lighter bones and a decrease in estrogen that occurs during menopause.
- Age: Fracture risks double every six to seven years after the age of 50.
- Heredity: If there is a history of osteoporosis in your family, you may have a higher risk of getting the disease.
- Race: Caucasian and Asian women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis.
- Body Size: Women with a low body weight (under 127 lbs.) and a small-boned frame are at an increased risk.
- Lifestyle: A diet low in calcium with an inadequate supply of vitamin D, cigarette smoking and excessive use of alcohol are all risk factors. Lack of regular exercise also increases. You chance of getting osteoporosis.
For More Information
Please contact us at 336-474-3456 for more information about the care and treatment of osteoporosis.
