Americans Lack Awareness of Osteoporosis Risk: Survey

American women and men age 45 and older have a low awareness of bone health and osteoporosis risk, according to a survey by the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF).

While 55 percent of Americans over age 50 are living with or at risk for osteoporosis, 40 percent of women and 60 percent of men age 45 and older have little or no concern about their bone health, the survey found.

The survey of 661 people also found that most are concerned about the impact a broken bone would have on their daily activities and independence, but nearly 80 percent of respondents didn't believe osteoporosis is a risk factor for broken bones.

It's estimated that one in two women and one in four men over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis, the NOF noted.

Among the other findings of the survey, released Thursday:

* 40 percent of women 45 and older and nearly 80 percent of men in this age group haven't had a bone density test.
* 60 percent of women and 90 percent of men haven't had a discussion with their health-care provider about the risk of breaking a bone.

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Tags:

• Osteoporosis