Written by Nicole Griswold
Lack of preventative care is a huge reason as to why so many people eventually suffer from ongoing chronic disease. With so many risk factors being asymptomatic, anyone who avoids regular visits with a physician, usually have no idea their health is in a downward spiral until it’s too late.
Unfortunately, osteoporosis is becoming one of the leading health issues contributing to long term unemployment due to disability. Osteoporosis is also known as the “silent disease” because it is nearly impossible to tell if someone is suffering from the low bone density disease, unless they are directly tested for it.
Luckily, we have pin pointed a good amount of risk factors that can keep us aware if we are most at risk than others for acquiring the disease. Like all health related risk factors, some are preventable and others are just the hand that we are dealt.
Take a look at just some of the following factors that could put you at risk for Osteoporosis –
Non-modifiable
Female
Old age
White or Asian ethnicity
Small body frame
Family history of Osteoporosis
Menopause before age 45
Previous bone fractures
Loss of height with older age
Modifiable
Physical inactivity
Low calcium and vitamin D intake
Smoker
Excessive alcohol and caffeine intake
Low strength/physical capabilities
Poor posture
Excessive soda consumption
Various medications
How many of those apply directly to you? More importantly, how many of the modifiable factors can you change? Focus on controlling what you can as much as possible. If multiple non-modifiable factors also come into play, it is recommended to seek care or testing from a physician.