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Osteoporosis Month:
from: Calcium alone may not be enoughNC
(NC)—Health specialists agree that calcium is crucial to maintain life. Just about every cell in the body, including those in the heart, nerves and muscles, relies on calcium to function properly. Our daily intake of calcium, via food or supplements, needs to be consistent throughout our lives to maintain good health. If it is not, say the specialists, our body will take the much-needed calcium right from our bones.
After age 50 however even a concentrated increase in calcium from food or supplements would not be enough if diagnosed with low bone density, or osteoporosis. Do note that if your bones have been slowly depleted of calcium over several years, by age 50 the only way to treat and manage such bone loss is with both increased calcium and with prescription medications.
During Osteoporosis Month it is important to raise awareness of how widespread this disease has become: one-in-four Canadian women over age 50 has osteoporosis, and one-in-eight men. While the statistics are disturbing there are many effective treatment methods readily available and getting sound information to women is important in the prevention of osteoporosis. Did you know for example, that osteoporosis is often called the "silent thief"? Current health data reports one-in-four women over age
50 has osteoporosis, and one-in-eight men. As it progresses, bone fractures of the hips, spine and wrist become common with even just simple activities like coughing, sneezing, hugging, or carrying groceries. In the elderly, complications from hip fractures frequently lead to death.
On Thursday, Nov. 6, Shoppers Drug Mart is holding Osteoporosis Day at all locations in Canada. Their HealthWATCH pharmacists will conduct one-on-one sessions with women who are either taking medication for the disease, or for women who want to find out if they are at risk. For those taking medication, the pharmacist will suggest ways to improve therapy results by assessing proper administration of the medication; will suggest ways to minimize side effects and may recommend alternative prescription medications that are easier to take. For women who want to find out if they are at risk – generally those 45-plus – pharmacists will discuss the major, minor, and modifiable risk factors as well as available therapy options. Shoppers Drug Mart is partnering with the Osteoporosis Society of Canada for this important health event.
If you would like to know more about the medication you are taking, or would simply like to learn about prevention and management of the disease, the Osteoporosis Day on Nov. 6 provides this opportunity. Consultations are scheduled individually so contact your neighbourhood Shoppers Drug Mart for an appointment.
- News Canada
About the author:
News Canada
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