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Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a result of a slow, degenerative process where our bones become thin, brittle and prone to fracture. It's called the silent disease because it takes place slowly over the years, and no physical symptoms are felt until a fracture has actually occurred. In the United State, it affects eight million women and two million men. And 18 million more have low bone mass putting them on the road to osteoporosis.
Fractures of the spine and hip are the most common. Spinal (vertebral) fractures can lead to the debilitating result called a Dowagers Hump, the curvature of the spine. And those who suffer hip fractures are at high risk of loss of mobility at bestŠ but at worst, hip fractures can lead to a 24% increased risk of death within one year's time of the fracture. Half of all people who experience hip fractures due to osteoporosis are unable to walk without some kind of assistance. And one out of four will need expensive, long-term nursing care.
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