Osteoporosis cases are on the rise in the United States, according to a new report released this week. 10 million Americans now suffer from the disease, which causes very weak bones and increases risk for fractures.
This news, reported by SmartAboutHealth.Net, is especially impactful for women who suffer from osteoporosis in rates nearly twice as high as that of men. According to the report, one out of every two American women suffers from the disease, while one in every four men do. These hugh numbers have risen greatly over recent years.
The risk is especially great for postmenopausal women. Among that group, research indicates that 24 percent who sustain a hip fracture after 50 years of age die within a year. Furthermore, 20 percent of people who sustain hip fractures require life-long care.
This increase in osteoporosis cases is also disturbing in terms of what it means for medical costs. Medical bills stemming from treating the disease can reach into tens of millions of dollars.
Currently, the common treatment for the disease is taking calcium or other similar supplements. However, many warn that the intake of these supplements may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
