Osteoporosis is a “silent disease” that weakens bones, often going undiagnosed until a fracture occurs. Many people only discover they have osteoporosis after age 65, when they receive their first bone density test. However, bone loss often begins much earlier, especially in postmenopausal women with risk factors-yet many are not screened in time.

Are You at Risk?

If you are a postmenopausal woman with even one risk factor, talk to your doctor about early screening. Risk factors include:

• Family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture
• Low body weight
• Smoking or heavy alcohol use
• Chronic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Long-term steroid use

Treatment and Prevention

There are many effective medications available to reduce fracture risk, including antiresorptives and anabolic agents. Discuss options with your primary care provider or bone specialist.

Calcium and Vitamin D are essential. Adults over 50 should aim for 1,200 mg of calcium and 800–1,000 IU of vitamin D daily, through diet or supplements.

Exercise: Proven to Help

Exercise is a powerful tool for bone health. The LIFT MORE study showed that supervised, high-intensity weight training improved bone density and muscle strength in older adults. The best exercises for osteoporosis are weight-bearing and resistance training.

At Mission Metabolic Health, our Onero® program is based on the LIFT MORE trial and delivers the same benefits in a safe, supervised setting-essential for those new to weightlifting or with osteoporosis.

Take Action

If you have risk factors, low bone density, or osteoporosis, don’t wait. To schedule a screening or get more information visit us at www.missionmetabolichealth.com.

Dr. Sean Cassleman grew up in Grosse Pointe and attended John Carroll University before studying at Michigan State University of Osteopathic Medicine and completing his residency at Sinai Grace Hospital, Detroit Medical Center. He has been practicing Internal Medicine in Saint Clair Shores and Detroit for over 10 years and is excited to deliver exceptional care so his patients can live leaner, longer and better. To schedule a screening or get more information visit: www.missionmetabolichealth.com.