Exeter, NH – Access Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics is helping to spread awareness about osteoporosis by celebrating National
Osteoporosis Prevention Month. The National Osteoporosis Foundation has designated May as National Osteoporosis Prevention Month to encourage people to be tested for and aware of the serious dangers of osteoporosis.
When you think about staying healthy, you probably think about making lifestyle changes to prevent cancer and heart disease. However, keeping your bones healthy is just as important. Did you know that an estimated 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and another 34 million have low bone mass? And although osteoporosis is more common in women, 20 percent of Americans with osteoporosis are men.
You may be at risk of osteoporosis if you:
- Are female
- Have had a fracture as an adult
- Are over 50 years old
- Have a family history of osteoporosis
- Are not physically active
- Smoke cigarettes
- Drink alcohol excessively
- Are a female and have gone through menopause
- Are a male with low testosterone levels
There are many steps that we can all take to prevent osteoporosis. First and foremost all women over the age of 65 should have their bone density tested using a bone densitometer. Men who fall into the criteria above should also consider being tested. Once you know your bone density you can determine if you need to make significant dietary and lifestyle changes or take supplements to boost your bone mass. Calcium and vitamin D are important nutrients that help keep your bones strong. They can be found in milk and other dairy products, fruits and vegetables or in supplement form. Individuals should also try to exercise regularly and should avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
If you would like to have your bone mineral density tested or if you have any questions about osteoporosis or bone density, please call 603-775-7575 or visit www.accesssportsmed.com.