Believe it or not, osteoporosis can strike at any age.  An estimated 10 million Americans are already affected by the disease and 34 million are estimated to be at risk; this includes 55% of Americans over the age of 50 who are most at risk of the disease.

Osteoporosis is a systematic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and tissue deterioration.  The disease can lead to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.  Osteoporosis can lead to bone fractures caused by simple movements, such as sneezing or coughing.  Fractures can have serious consequences, often resulting in hospitalization and surgery.

Although anyone is at risk for osteoporosis, women are especially at risk.  Post-menopausal women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass, dramatically increasing their risk for osteoporosis.  Also, children are in need of additional calcium as skeletal growth and bone materialization are occurring during the childhood years.  Inadequate supplies of calcium during this crucial time can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis later in life.