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Osteoporosis Resource Center

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become thin and break easily. The most common breaks are in the hip, spine or wrist. Osteoporosis is called a "silent disease" because many people do not even know that they have thin bones until a bone breaks.

Detecting Osteoporosis

If you are at risk for Osteoporosis, consult your healthcare provider about getting a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test. A bone density test is able to diagnose osteoporosis or low bone mass, which may increase your risk for the development of osteoporosis. Catholic Health provides bone density tests at several facilities.

For information about a location near you, please call HealthConnection at (716) 447-6205.

Osteoporosis Prevention

Although your family history plays an important role in your risk for osteoporosis, following the six steps to osteoporosis prevention can reduce your personal risk for the disease:

• Eat a balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D.
• Participate in regular weight-bearing and muscle strengthening exercise.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle, including no smoking and the avoidance of alcohol abuse.
• Take safety precautions for fall prevention.
• Identify your personal risk factors for osteoporosis.
• Get a bone density test when appropriate and take medication when necessary.

Support Groups and Education

Catholic Health, the New York State Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program and the Western New York/Rochester Regional Osteoporosis Resource Center are committed to education and support.

Sharing knowledge, feelings, and experiences with other people in similar situations will help you face the challenges of osteoporosis with a positive attitude. The New York State Osteoporosis Prevention & Education Program has established a statewide network of support groups committed to providing people with the opportunity to obtain reliable, current information and to share coping strategies in a caring environment.

For more information about Osteoporosis or to join a support group near you, contact the Western New York/Rochester Regional Osteoporosis Resource Center at (716) 862-BONE (2663).