Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Osteoporosis is a "silent disease" that can develop without symptoms. It is a disease in which bone loss occurs without pain over time. Bones become weak and porous. Often, it is only when a person breaks a bone that she or he becomes aware of the disease. 

At least 10 million Americans have osteoporosis. It can occur at any age, although older people are most often affected. One out of every two women and one in eight men over age 50 will have a bone fracture related to this disease. About 112,372 residents are aged 50 or over in Genesee County as of 1997.

A lack of calcium and Vitamin D is a leading cause of osteoporosis. Without calcium, new bone tissue cannot be formed and existing calcium in the bones may leak out for use elsewhere in the body. Other risk factors for the disease include anorexia, low levels of the hormones estrogen (women) and testosterone (men), certain medications, an inactive lifestyle, smoking and excessive use of alcohol. 

Prevent osteoporosis by eating every day a balanced diet rich in calcium (1000 -1300 mg a day) and Vitamin D. Good sources of calcium are dairy products, leafy green vegetables and fortified foods (orange juice, bread, cereal). A calcium supplement can be used. Vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium and is created by skin exposed to sunlight. If sun exposure is limited, take a daily supplement of 400 to 800 IU.

Perform weight-bearing exercises such as, walking, dancing, jogging, stair climbing and hiking to increase the density and strength of bones. Limit alcohol use and reduce or quit smoking. Consult a physician about medications that can slow bone loss. For more information contact the Genesee County Health Department at 257-3840.