Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. These broken bones, also called fractures, typically occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. Research indicates that osteoporosis is responsible for more than 1.5 million fractures each year.
Eighty percent of those affected by osteoporosis are women; Caucasian and Asian women are at the greatest risk of developing osteoporosis. Some of the factors that increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis include:
Advanced Age
Family History
Small or Thin Build
Low Calcium and Vitamin D Intake
Physical Inactivity
Smoking
Excessive Alcohol
Excessive Caffeine
Chronic Diseases of Kidney, Lung, Stomach and Intestines
Osteoporosis is called the "silent disease" because it causes no symptoms until there is a fracture. This is why prevention and early recognition are important. Risk factors are similar in men and women with the inclusion of menopause in women. Men of all ethnic groups are affected; however, Caucasian men appear to be at the greatest risk for osteoporosis.
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Specific Information about Osteoporosis |
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The links below contain additional information about the risk factors of osteoporosis, preventative measures, testing, and Kentucky data about this debilitating health condition. At the right are links to other web sites with additional information about osteoporosis.
Risk factors for osteoporosis
Preventing osteoporosis
Testing and treating osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Facts and Stats
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Funding Opportunity |
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In an effort to address the growing public health problem of falls among the elderly, the Department for Public Health is requesting partners to implement the Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falling program in their communities. Attached is a Request for Partners (RFP) and the MOB License Agreement.
Health departments are encouraged to apply for this funding opportunity. We are also providing this opportunity for community organizations that serve the older adult population as well. Our hope is that communities will find creative ways of partnering to deliver this worthwhile program. In an effort to encourage partnerships with local health departments, we are asking all applicants to obtain the signature of the local health department director on a statement of support. The RFP is due on July 15th.
If you have any questions, please contact Angela Deokar at 502-564-7996 x3679, Angela.Deokar@ky.gov.
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