Osteoporosis is a bone-weakening disease that causes bones to break easily, affects women and men of all ages. It is a major public health concern for 28 million Americans, approximately 80% of whom are women. An estimated 50% of all women over the age of 65 are affected and as many as one in two women and one in eight men will suffer a fracture due to osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a "silent disease." An individual cannot feel their bones becoming weak and fragile. Fortunately, osteoporosis now can be diagnosed before fractures occur by measuring bone density and beginning treatment early. In Chester County, 19% of residents over age 65 state that they have never had an osteoporosis screening performed. (PHMC, 2004)
Prevention of osteoporosis should begin in childhood and continue throughout life. Recomendations:
Chester County Health Department