Osteoporosis develops gradually and stealthily, making bones fragile and brittle. Because of its “silent” onset, it may not seem like a formidable threat. Yet 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and eight out of 10 are women. Half of women over age 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis. A woman's risk of breaking a hip is equal to her combined risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer, according to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation.
Osteoporosis is a preventable condition. Here’s what you need to know.