Are You At Risk For Developing Osteoporosis? 

Ask yourself the following questions to determine if you have a greater risk for developing osteoporosis.  The more times you answer “yes”, the greater your risk.

Are you….?

• Female

• Approaching or past menopause

• Asian or Caucasian

• Thin or small framed

• Not as tall as you once were

• Milk intolerant or have low calcium intake

• Physically sedentary or inactive

• A cigarette smoker or drink alcohol/caffeine in access

• Taking thyroid medication

• Taking steroid-based drugs for asthma, arthritis or cancer.

Do you have….?

• A family history of osteoporosis or female relatives with bone fractures

• Chronic back pain

• Chronic indigestion/heartburn

• Rounded shoulders or “widow’s hump”

• Trouble walking or getting up from a chair

• A recent bone fracture 

Osteoporosis is preventable for many people.  Prevention of this disease is very important because, while there are treatments for osteoporosis, there currently is no cure.  Remember, a calcium-rich diet is only one part of an osteoporosis prevention or treatment program.  Like exercise, getting enough calcium is a strategy that helps strengthen bones at any age.  But these approaches may not be enough to stop bone loss caused by lifestyle, medications or menopause.  It is important to speak to your doctor to assess your risk of developing osteoporosis. 

If you would like to schedule an appointment with an HIMG primary care physician to assess your risk for osteoporosis, please contact (304) 528-4600. 

To learn more about osteoporosis and further prevention guidelines, click here: