More than 25 million Americans, mostly women, are at risk for developing osteoporosis - a disease in which bones become fragile and break easily. Small-boned, thin, white, menopausal women are particularly at risk. A women over 50 has more of a chance of fracturing a hip than developing breast, ovarian and uterine cancer combined. 1.5 million men are affected. Some mediations such as steroids, excessive thyroid hormone, anticonvulsants, aluminum containing antacids, heparin and others can also increase the risk of developing this disease. Over 1.5 million fractures a year can be blamed on fragile bones caused by this preventable disease. 30% of women over the age of fifty will suffer vertebral fractures and lead to stooped posture and loss of height. The best defense for the prevention of osteoporosis is building strong bones before the age of 35 with good diet and exercise. Other measures include: Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), diet, and exercise. ERT, especially for those women a high risk and with a family history of the disease, is recommended. Although there are risks with ERT, they may be outweighed by the preventive benefits to bone loss and heart attack. Diet is very important and you should have at least 1200 mg of calcium a day. Weight-bearing exercise, at any age, is also a good way to maintain strong bones. If you already have osteoporosis, there is help available. ERT, calcitonin (a natural hormone that regulates calcium and bone metabolism), bisphosphonates (compounds that inhibit bone loss), and sodium fluoride have all been found to be helpful in preventing progression of the disease. To assess the health of your bones, ask your doctor to order a bone mass measurement. It’s the only way to tell if you have osteoporosis. For more information about osteoporosis, contact the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 1150 17th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036-4603 or visit their web site.