Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month

In the UK, one in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 will fracture a bone.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the usually strong support struts that make up the inside of most bones becomes thinner. This can lead to bones becoming fragile and breaking easily, resulting in pain and disability.

In the UK, one in two women and one in five men over the age of 50 will fracture a bone. This is mainly due to poor bone health. However, osteoporosis is often a silent condition. It gives no pain or symptoms until the worst happens and a bone breaks. Many people living with osteoporosis are unaware that they have fragile bones until this happens.

What are the risks for osteoporosis?

Those that smoke or drink in excess of the recommended daily alcohol intake are at greater risk. However, gender, genetics, age, race and low body weight are all contributing factors.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom. There is a lot you can do to prevent the condition, and to reduce your chance of breaking a bone if you do get it.

I can give you dietary and lifestyle advice, and advise you about weight bearing exercise. This can help manage your risk factors to reduce the impact of the condition on your lifestyle.

To find out more about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, contact the National Osteoporosis Society by visiting their website at: www.nos.org.uk

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