Osteoporosis is called the “silent disease” because it can go undetected until something happens, like a stress fracture. Another challenge for this disease, which affects about 10 million people (80% of whom are women), is that prevention is affected by what we do in early life, i.e., before the age of 20.
The National Conference of State Legislatures page on this public health issue highlights policies that range from prevention and education and awareness campaigns to insurance requirements for related diagnostic and treatment services.
Osteoporosis is a health issue that benefits from a variety of public health approaches, like prevention and the combination of nutrition and exercise programs. Whether you are interested in treating osteoporosis or developing health promotion campaigns to reduce its negative effects, there is likely a public health degree or training program that will help you help families affected by this disease!
