[select:Who Is At Risk For Osteoporosis?
Who Is At Risk For Osteoporosis?
A lot of people are under the misconception that just because they are young they are not at risk for osteoporosis. This could not be farther from the truth. Being young does not automatically equal healthy just like a slim person does not automatically resemble the picture of good health. Older people are more susceptible to getting osteoporosis because as you age, you experience bone reduction (men and women experience bone loss in different ways due to various factors such as hormones). You need to know that this disease can strike at any age, but it is predominately seen in older individuals.
Women tend to get osteoporosis as a general statement. Women usually have smaller bones than men, so as they age and bone mass decreases, they more commonly develop osteoporosis. Women lose bone mass earlier than men as well, since women stop producing natural hormones at an earlier age. Men, however, are not immune to osteoporosis. Men can have the disease as well, but it often shows up later in life than for women.
Like a lot of other diseases or conditions, your genetic makeup can play a big role in whether or not you will develop osteoporosis. If one or both of your parents have suffered from this condition, chances are you too will have the condition or suffer a reduction in bone mass making you more prone to experience bone fractures at some point in your life.
If you are someone who did drugs or drank heavily at an early age, you may have put yourself at greater risk for getting osteoporosis. It is always important to take care of your body, after all you only get one. Doctors are still conducting research to find the exact reasons why substance abuse causes a greater risk for osteoporosis as well as bone fractures. This is one of the risk factors that can be changed with awareness and assistance from a substance abuse program if necessary.
From the time you were young, you were always told to drink your milk, eat cheese, and vegetables. Listening to this advice at an early age can help prevent osteoporosis in the future because these are foods that contain calcium. Calcium is what your bones need to grow strong, and the stronger they are in young adulthood, the stronger they will be later in life.
There are many more risk factors for osteoporosis. The best advice is to take care of yourself. In my research I have found that more people consult with their physician for possible ways to reduce the risk of osteoporosis only after someone closes to them has been diagnosed. Live a healthier tomorrow today. Take one day at a time.
Are you at risk for developing osteoporosis? If you are concerned about your health, and want to live a more active and healthy lifestyle, don’t wait another day. Take care of your body and your health before it’s too late!
