Osteoporosis and Bone Health- a Primer
May 19, 2014May is National Osteoporosis Month – the perfect time to think about your bone health. We thought it would be a good opportunity to cover some basic facts.
About 85-90% of adult bone mass is acquired by age 18 in girls and 20 in boys. Building strong bones during childhood and adolescence can help to prevent osteoporosis later in life.
Rick factors for osteoporosis include: older age; female gender (but men get it too!); menopause; smoking
; too little calcium or vitamin D; not enough physical activity; small and thin body type. A height loss of 1 ½ inch is a warning that you may be at risk for osteoporosis.
You’re never too young or too old to take actions to promote stronger bones. Whatever your age, the lifestyle habits you adopt now can affect your bone health for the rest of your life.
• The formula for Stronger Bones: Get the Recommended C (Calcium) + D (Vitamin D) + E (Exercise)
• Stand Tall and Know Your Osteoporosis Risk Factors
• Smoking Harms Bones. By Quitting smoking you can improve the quality of your bones and your overall health
• Exercise Safely; Protect your Frame
• Getting the Right Amount of Calcium is a Big Deal
• Regular Vision Checkups Can Prevent Falls
• Take Steps for Stronger Bones
• Speak to your Healthcare Provider for more Information.
• Take Safety Precautions to Prevent Falls and Prevent Broken Bones!
• Exercise Safely and Stay Physically Active for Stronger Bones.
• Eat plenty of Fruits and Vegetables for Stronger Bones.
Osteoporosis does not have to be a normal part of aging! Talk to your doctor about a bone density test.
-Shari Silverstein, RN
Nurse Educator
NYSOPEP at Helen Hayes Hospital
