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Like many people, you lead a busy life. While your activities may change over time, the importance of leading an active, independent life remains the same. Whether you’re busy with work and volunteer responsibilities or looking forward to enjoying more leisure time, you want to stay healthy, strong, and independent.
Believe it or not, osteoporosis—the deterioration of bone tissues and bone mass—is one of the greatest health threats for women over 50.* Because osteoporosis develops without obvious symptoms, many people don’t realize how serious the condition really is.
One in every three American women will experience a spinal fracture due to osteoporosis, and one in six will fracture her hip. These fractures are serious business, because they can limit your independence and activity level for years to come.
The good news is you can arm yourself against osteoporosis. By learning as much as you can about the disease, taking preventive measures, and talking with your health care provider about treatments, you can protect your bone health and maintain your independence.
*While women over the age of 50 are at increased risk of osteoporosis, both women and men are affected by the disease and may be diagnosed at earlier ages.
The materials provided here are important tools in helping you maintain your bones and stand strong against osteoporosis:
- The Interactive Treatment Tool quizzes you on how you are doing with your treatment plan, giving you tips on what you should be doing to make sure you are taking charge of your bone health. It also provides personalized, printable results that you can take with you to your next appointment and use to start a conversation with your health care provider.
- The Standing Strong: Preventing & Treating Osteoporosis patient brochure provides information on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and sources for additional information. The brochure can be downloaded and is also available in hard copy. The workshop kit and all materials are also available in Spanish.
- A series of videos provide information from individuals diagnosed with osteoporosis and experts on the disease. The video clips cover the following topics:
The Dangers of Osteoporosis
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
Bone Density Test for Osteoporosis
What to Ask Your Doctor About Osteoporosis
Preventing Osteoporosis Through Diet, Exercise, and Drug Treatment
The Side Effects of Osteoporosis Medication
The Benefits of Osteoporosis Medication
The Importance of Diet in Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis
The Importance of Exercise in Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis