Lions Club working to prevent Osteoporosis

(CNS): Next week the Lions Club of Tropical Gardens will begin a series of awareness meetings about osteoporosis a debilitating disease that can be prevented and treated. Starting on 28 May, 7:30pm at the Elmslie Church Hall a panel of medical practitioners will speak on risk factors, symptoms and prevention of the disease. “Experts will also be present to provide current information on the latest drugs, diet and supplementary vitamins available on the market,” the service club said.

The club will also be providing 30 free vouchers to those that qualify for bone density exams. Osteoporosis is a thinning of the bones that occurs over time for most people. Although, most common in women, itcan also affect men as they age. Osteoporosis is associated with 1.2 million bone fractures each year and robs individuals of their independence.

Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals, such as calcium, more quickly than the body can replace them, leading to a loss of bone thickness (bone mass or density).  As a result the bones become thinner and less dense, so that even a minor bump or accident can cause serious fractures.  People cannot feel their bones getting weaker.  In fact, they may not know that they have osteoporosis until they break a bone.  A person with osteoporosis can fracture a bone from a minor fall, or in serious cases, from a simple action such as a sneeze or even spontaneously.  Women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone mass in five to seven years after menopause.

The good news is that osteoporosis can be prevented.  The following five steps can optimize bone health and help prevent osteoporosis.  (1)Get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D. (2) Engage in regular weight bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise. (3) Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. (4) Talk to your healthcare provider about bone health and (5) have a bone density test and take medication when appropriate.