Osteoporosis is another common result of getting older, and is essentially advanced bone density loss. This leads to brittle, easily broken bones and can lead to spinal curvature known as ‘Dowager’s Hump’. As women have lived progressively longer beyond menopause, both awareness and treatments for osteoporosis have grown.

Around 10 million women suffer from osteoporosis, and millions more have been diagnosed with low bone density. In the 5-7 years after menopause women will lose 20% of their bone mass, once again the loss of estrogen causes this to happen.

Doctors can perform bone mineral density tests to detect any problems, and there are now many treatment options available if bone loss is detected.

Risk factors

- a history of bone breaks as an adult

- small frame/low body weight, under 127 lbs

- a family history of osteoporosis

- smoking

- heavy alcohol consumption

- little or no exercise

- poor diet, especially if it is low in calcium and vitamins

- prolonged use of corticosteroid drugs

- low estrogen levels before age 45

- medical issues including stroke and inflamed bowels,

What can you do to help yourself?

- take calcium and vitamin D in doses recommended by your doctor

- exercise to strengthen your bones, at least 20 minutes 3 times each week, biking and walking are great!

- stop smoking as it doubles your chance of osteoporosis

- cut down on caffeine

- cut down alcohol intake to fewer than 6 units a week

- talk about steroid-based medicines with your doctor to see if non-steroid versions are an option

- keep your home tidy to prevent falls

The good news is that osteoporosis is treatable, and somewhat preventable if precautions are taken in early adulthood. If found later there are still many treatment options, so if you are concerned about your bone health, please get help.