$Unique_ID{BRK00778}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{Can Osteoporosis Run in the Family?}
$Subject{osteoporosis genetic inherited genes}
$Volume{M-17}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can Osteoporosis Run in the Family?


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QUESTION:  My mother was one of the most energetic and successful women of her
generation.  I am saddened as I see her become stooped and stunted by the
effects of what her doctor calls "osteoporosis".  Since I see much of my
mother in myself, I am wondering if I too, am more prone to develop this
condition because of my genes?

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ANSWER:  Although there are many factors that put you at risk for
osteoporosis, women who have mothers or sisters that have already developed
the condition are certainly at an increased risk.  Osteoporosis is a disorder
in which bone tissue is gradually lost from the skeleton making it more
fragile.  Other recognized risk factors include thin or petite women of small
stature, blond, blue eyed "Nordic" types, and those with early menopause.  If
in addition, you have exercised very little, used cigarettes regularly, abused
alcohol, consumed a diet poor in calcium during your formative years, or used
certain medications such as corticosteroids, your risk factors are increased.
I'll bet your mother was a smoker, as many of the business women of her day
affected the habit, and spent more time at her desk than on an exercise cycle,
for who knew of the benefits of regular physical activity then?  Hopefully it
is not too late for you to change those life style factors that will diminish
the possibility of you developing this condition, and even now, begin to
offset your inherited risks.  One of the problems with osteoporosis is that
you don't know you have it until the bones become so weakened that fractures
occur with little external trauma.  Still there is much you can do.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
