Osteoporosis: Prevention is key

  • Published
  • By Maj. Michael Ross
  • 382nd Training Squadron
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Osteoporosis is characterized by bones becoming thin and fragile and more likely to break. According to the National Institute of Health, osteoporosis is responsible for more than 1.5 million fractures each year, with about 700,000 occurring in the spine and 300,000 in the hips, at an estimated cost of more than $14 billion. 

The word "osteoporosis" typically evokes an image of a thin, frail woman in her 80s with a rounded, slumped back - or maybe an elderly friend or relative who may have fractured a hip after a fall. Osteoporosis is not commonly associated with individuals in their 20s or 30s. However, what happens by this time in life has a lot to do with whether a person is likely to be diagnosed with osteoporosis later in life. 

Bones, like many other tissues in the body, are constantly regenerating. Furthermore, bone strength has a tendency to change throughout life due to a delicate balance between bone formation and consumption. During childhood and adolescence, bone formation is more rapid than bone consumption. Bone strength peaks in both men and women between the ages of 25 and 35, but can diminish thereafter. Women are most affected, partly because they have less bone mass to start with and hormonal factors associated with menopause. Decreased bone strength, is commonly seen later in life, puts an individual at a significantly higher risk for fractures. 

There are several ways to prevent or manage osteoporosis and improve bone health at any age. Cigarette smoking and excessive intake of alcohol are risk factors for osteoporosis, and therefore should be avoided. Calcium/vitamin D supplementation and medications, if indicated, can be prescribed by a health care provider. Exercise has also been shown to be very beneficial. For example, brisk walks or weight training programs of 20 to 30 minutes, three to four times a week have been shown to increase bone strength. 

Prevention of osteoporosis is the key to controlling it. The goal is to build the strongest bones possible and keep them strong through exercise, diet and other healthy lifestyle habits. However, prior to initiating an exercise program or any dietary changes, it is important to consult with a health care provider.