Osteoporosis, the silent disease, can shorten your life − here’s how to prevent fractures and keep bones healthy

With some simple lifestyle changes, you can lower your risk of osteoporosis. MoMo Productions/DigitalVision via Getty Images by Ting Zhang, University of Pittsburgh and Jianying Zhang, University of Pittsburgh Because there are typically no symptoms until the first fracture occurs, osteoporosis is considered a silent disease. Some call it a silent killer. Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by decreased bone density and strength, leading to fragile, brittle bones that increase the risk of fractures, especially in the spine, hips and wrists. The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that more than 10 million Americans have osteoporosis. Another 43 million have low bone mass, which is the precursor to osteoporosis. By 2030, the number of adults with osteoporosis or low bone mass is estimated to increase by more than 30%, to 71 million. The reasons for the increase include lifestyle issues, particularly smoking, lack of physical activity and alcohol abuse. Our aging population, along with the insufficient attention paid to this disease, are also why osteoporosis is on the rise. An illustration of osteoporosis of the spine. Note the sponge-like tissue, which is partially destroyed. BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images If you are older, it may be discouraging to read those...