Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bone becomes extremely fragile. Bone is a complex living tissue that can be weakened by poor diet and lack of exercise.

As we age, bones begin to break down faster than new bone can be formed. Osteoporosis removes minerals from bones until they become so weak and brittle that they fracture very easily. Actions such as bending to pick up a newspaper, lifting a vacuum, or even coughing can cause a fracture. Some fractures, such as hip fractures, may require hospitalization or major surgery, and may result in disability or even death.

These pictures show the difference between healthy bone, and bone with low density and mass. The dark areas in the picture on the right show where the bone has been weakened by osteoporosis.

Facts About Osteoporosis and Screening in the United States

Osteoporosis can affect people of all ages 10 million Americans are estimated to have osteoporosis Approximately 80% of people with osteoporosis are women An estimated 34 million people have low bone mass, putting them at risk for osteoporosis View Sources

Warning signs

Osteoporosis is painless in its early stages and often there are no symptoms or signs until late in the disease progression. However, some people experience these signs of osteoporosis:

• Bone fractures, especially of the hip, spine, or wrist
• Change in posture
• Sudden back pain
• Loss of height

Risk factors

The following factors are indicative of your risk for osteoporosis:

• Being a postmenopausal woman
• Race (Caucasians, Asian Americans, and Hispanics are at an increased risk)
• Thin frame
• Diet low in calcium
• Smoking
• Physical inactivity
• Heavy alcohol consumption

Diagnosis and screening for osteoporosis

Osteoporosis can be caught early with an osteoporosis risk analysis. Early detection via screening allows physicians to take action, if necessary, with appropriate treatment.

Life Line Screening offers bone mineral density screening of your heel bone—an effective and accurate screening for osteoporosis.

Interested in learning more about osteoporosis and the screening for osteoporosis? Read our FAQs.