Shelley Berkley: “May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. Osteoporosis and low bone density affect 44 million…”

“May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. Osteoporosis and low bone density affect 44 million Americans over the age of 50, many of whom were unaware of the fact that they have osteoporosis and, therefore, were unable to take steps to prevent it. Like many Americans, I had no idea I was at risk for developing osteoporosis. I thought I simply had bad posture, and it never occurred to me to be screened for osteoporosis. Yet when I was running for Congress in 1998, I was diagnosed with this disease. Fortunately, within 10 months of the diagnose with proper treatment I was able to stop my bone density loss and my bones actually began to strengthen again. Because of my personal experience with osteoporosis, I am committed to ensuring that my fellow Americans are aware of the importance of early detection and prevention. Men and women can reduce their chances of developing this disease. I encourage everyone to see your doctor, get screened for osteoporosis. It is a very silent, but very deadly, disease. ____________________”