Thanks DnvrFox,

I was diagnosed 4 years ago with osteopenia, in spite of following all of the advice for calcium, exercise, etc. Its just in my genes.

Post-menopausal women lose bone at a faster rate for about 5 years after menopause. And any woman late 40's or early 50's that has broken a wrist due to a non-traumatic accident, like falling off a bike, should view the break as a red flag and get tested. Don't listen to Drs. who say you are too young, some still see it as a disease of the elderly, when actual bone loss starts in the early fifties or younger.

There are several other drugs that will also help maintain bone mass. It depends on individual needs. I take Actonel.

Anyone who is thinking of being tested should get a Dexascan, it is considered the best since heel scans aren't always calibrated correctly so are less reliable.

The National Osteoporsis Association predicts a national epidemic due to lack of exercise and calcium in the diet.

I've watched my mom progress through this disease for the last 30 years or so. Its unbelievable what it can do to a person. She's had numerous broken bones throughout the years and is now so fragile that a slight blow will cause a break. She's confined to a wheel chair and has lost at about a foot in height.

We're fortunate that so much more is known about this disease than 30 years ago. If we can't prevent it we can at least slow down the progression.

Kathi