Bone Wise

Bone Wise
Knowing the risk factors help foil osteoporosis

A recent global study of osteoporosis in women shows we are too quick to downplay its seriousness.  According to the study, only 33% ofpost menopause or coeliac disease - perceive themselves to be fracture-prone than their peers.  It's a worry, given that 12-15% of those with hip fractures die within 6 months from complications or subsequent immobility.  Professor John Eisman, director of osteoporosis research at Sydney's Garvan Institute, says no-one can afford to overlook the disease. "As a man you're probably more likely to die in relation to osteoporosis in terms of its effects, side effects and (premature) mortality than from something like prostate cancer. For a woman, you're probably more likely to die in relation to osteoporosis than you are from breast cancer."  Understanding you have a risk, and taking it seriously, pays off, adds Associate Professor Jacqueline Centre, also of the Garvan Institute.