Of the estimated 10 million Americans with osteoporosis – which
means “porous bones” – 80% of them are women. That’s why we
wanted to shine a spotlight on this condition during National
Women’s Health Week. Approximately one in two women over the age
of 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis. Even more
alarming is the fact that 24% of hip fracture patients age 50
and older die in the year following their fracture. Now that you
know the facts, it’s time to talk to your family about what you
can do to prevent this scenario. The National Osteoporosis
Foundation’s Generations of Strength Campaign encourages women
(and men!) to start conversations about bone health and family
history during National Osteoporosis Month. Have either of your
parents experienced a broken hip, spine or wrist, for example?
What about height loss or a spine that curves forward (two
possible signs of broken bones in the spine)? Research shows
that genetics plays a major role in osteoporosis. If either of
your parents has a history o