Osteoporosis Quiz

How much do you know about osteoporosis? Try taking the following true-or-false quiz. You may be surprised at how much you already know.

#1. Osteoporosis is the same as arthritis.

False. Osteoporosis means the gradual loss of bone density. This occurs naturally as people, especially women, grow older. Arthritis refers to inflammation in the joints, not to a loss of bone strength or density.

#2. All adults are at risk for developing osteoporosis.

True. Anyone can develop osteoporosis. There are certain people who are at higher risk for this disease, but anyone can develop fragile and easily broken bones. If you are fair skinned, thin, do not perform weight-bearing exercise regularly, are calcium deficient, or a post-menopausal woman, you are at increased risk for osteoporosis.

#3. Alcohol abuse increases your risk of developing osteoporosis.

True. Too much alcohol seems to weaken bones. This is just one of many reasons why it is important to drink only in moderation. Tobacco use also increases your risk for developing osteoporosis. Smokers are at risk if they do not stop smoking.

#4. Estrogen pills may protect women from osteoporosis.

True. Estrogen replacement is one of the best ways for women to protect their bones after menopause. However, there are risks that go along with taking estrogen or hormone replacement. These risks along with the benefits must be discussed with your healthcare provider and a decision made based on your health history. There are other medications and lifestyle changes that can be used to help prevent osteoporosis that do not carry the risks.

#5. Weight-bearing exercise decreases your risk for osteoporosis.

True. Weight-bearing exercise certainly does decrease your risk for osteoporosis. Exercise helps maintain bone strength and is of benefit to everyone as they age.

#6. Osteoporosis is preventable.

True. While every adult will have some bone loss as they age, it does not have to be extreme. There are many ways to avoid severe bone loss. Preventing severe bone loss starts in childhood by eating a well balanced diet that includes enough calcium and Vitamin D, taking extra calcium and Vitamin D if needed, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol or drinking in moderation and avoiding tobacco. If you do all of these things, your bones can be healthy for a lifetime!

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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