In Australia, one in two women and one in three men
over 60 will have an osteoporatic fracture.
Osteoporosis is known as a "silent disease" because until a fracture occurs, there are usually no symptoms.
Risk factors for developing the condition include:
- Being a female aged late 40s to early 50s
- A family history of osteoporosis and fractures
- Poor diet – low calcium
- Lack of vitamin D
- Smoking
- Drinking more than two standard drinks of alcohol per day
- Early menopause
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Long-term use of some medications
Osteoporosis is diagnosed by a bone density test using a DEXA scan which measures the strength of your bones. Lower than average bone density confirms a diagnosis.
Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/
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