Press
Release
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| For More Information Contact: | For Immediate Release |
| Julie Armstrong, Deputy Public Information Officer | Date: 05/01/2003 |
| Phone: (937) 642-2053 | |
| Fax: (937) 642-3047 |
Building strong bones, especially before the age of 30, can be the best defense against developing osteoporosis and a healthy lifestyle can be critically important for keeping bones strong. Join the Union County Health Department as we observe National Osteoporosis Prevention Month.
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. Millions of Americans are at risk for this largely preventable disease. While women are four times more likely than men to develop the disease, it affects men as well. If not prevented or left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks.
The following steps can be taken to help prevent osteoporosis.
• Consume a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Participate in weight bearing exercise
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with no smoking or excessive alcohol use
• Have a bone density test and take preventive medications when appropriate
It is never too early or too late to start your prevention program. For
more information on osteoporosis contact the National Osteoporosis Foundation
at (202) 223-2226 or your Union County Health Department at 937-642-0801
or 1-888-333-9461 for non-local calls.
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