Osteoporosis is a major health problem in the United States that affects approximately 20 million people. It is the cause of an estimated 1.5 million broken bones (fratures) each year. Women are 5 times more likely than men to develop osteoporosis. After age 30, the bones slowly begin to thin and this accelerates between the ages of 45 and 55. The good news is there are things you can do to slow down the process of bone thinning and breakage.

Not enough calcium and vitamin D every day can lead to thinning of bones. Family history, other medical conditions, and some medications can also lead to bone loss throughout life. Women who start menopause early in life (before age 45) have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen levels.

While you cannot control risk factors such as family history, sex, age, early menopause and other medical conditions that can cause thinning of the bones, you can make some changes to control some of the risk factors to slow down the process:

• Talk to your pharmacist and doctor about medications that may cause thinning of bone if taken over a period of time.
• Get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diest or by taking dietary supplements.
• Eat a healthy diet including green leafy vegetables and low-fat dairy products.
• Do not smoke and do not drink more than one alcoholic drink per day.
• Exercise regularly to help build and strengthen your bones.
• Take medications as directed.