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Book Detail
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Osteoporosis Sourcebook
Williams, Angela L., Ed.
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Previous ISBN (13): 9780780802391 Category: ConsHlth: Women's Health
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Synopsis:
Many people think of bones as only simple, solid structures that make up the skeletal system. In truth, bones are complex, living tissues that go through a constant process of building up and tearing down. This process, called bone remodeling, rebuilds bones as people age and grow. One of the main components of bone is calcium. In fact, the skeletal system contains 99 percent of the body's calcium. In osteoporosis, which literally means porous bones, excessive bone loss results in a depletion of calcium. The gradual weakening of the bones over time makes them more susceptible to fractures and can lead to disfigurement and pain. Most people reach a peak bone mass between the ages of 25 and 35. By age 40, bone loss usually reaches 0.5 percent per year. Postmenopausal women can lose 2 to 3 percent per year and can have lost 50 percent of their bone mass by age 70 or 80. In osteoporosis, bone loss accelerates. Since the loss occurs over time, the effect may not be noticed until substantial bone loss has occurred, often signaled by an unexpected fracture. Osteoporosis cannot be detected by x-ray until the bone loss has reached 30 to 50 percent of bone mass by which time the calcium depletion cannot be reversed. Because of this, prevention and early diagnosis are critical. Osteoporosis Sourcebook, Second Edition, provides information so that the layperson can identify the important risk factors of osteoporosis and the life-style changes needed to offset them. It provides answers to questions about calcium intake and supplements and other dietary needs, hormone replacement therapies, the drugs used to treat osteoporosis, and surgical options. It also suggests coping strategies for those suffering from the disease and provides a glossary of related terms and a directory of resources.
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