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Source: The National Osteoporosis Foundation Definition

Osteoporosis is the most common human bone disease in the US characterized by bone loss and an increased risk of fracture. Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures of the hip, spine and wrist.

Prevalence:

  • Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for more than 28 million Americans, 80% of whom are women.
  • In the U.S. today, 10 million individuals already have the disease and 18 million more have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis.
  • In Georgia alone, there are over 700,000 people with osteoporosis or low bone density.

Symptoms:

Osteoporosis has no symptoms until the occurrence of a fracture. The disease is "silent" or without symptoms until there is a major problem. Most individuals are unaware they have osteoporosis until a bump, fall or sneeze causes a fracture. Vertebral crushing and collapse cause back pain, decreased height, and spinal deformities such as stooped posture (Dowager's hump). These symptoms are commonly associated with full-blown osteoporosis.

Risk Factors:

Risk factors make some individuals more likely than others to develop osteoporosis. The following risk factors have been identified:
  • Being female
  • Thin and/or small frame
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Being Postmenopausal. This includes early (before age 40) or surgically induced menopause (ovaries removed)
  • Abnormal absence of menstrual periods
  • Anorexia nervosa or bulimia
  • Diet low in calcium
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Low testosterone levels in men
  • Use of certain medications: corticosteroids and anticonvulsants in particular
  • Being Caucasian or Asian, although African Americans and Hispanics are also at significant risk


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