$Unique_ID{BRK00778} $Pretitle{} $Title{Can Osteoporosis Run in the Family?} $Subject{osteoporosis hereditary genetic inherited genes Musculoskeletal bone bones risk factors thin petite blond blue-eyed early menopause cigarettes exercise alcohol corticosteroids} $Volume{M-17, V-17} $Log{ Contributing Factors to Osteoporosis*0005701.scf Osteoporosis*0005702.scf} Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Can Osteoporosis Run in the Family? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ QUESTION: My mother was one of the most energetic and successful women of her generation. I am saddened as I see her become stooped and stunted by the effects of what her doctor calls "osteoporosis". Since I see much of my mother in myself, I am wondering if I, too, am more prone to develop this condition because of my genes? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANSWER: Although there are many factors that put you at risk for osteoporosis, women who have mothers or sisters that have already developed the condition are certainly at an increased risk. Osteoporosis is a disorder in which bone tissue is gradually lost from the skeleton, making it more fragile. Other recognized risk factors include thin or petite women of small stature, blond, blue eyed "Nordic" types, and those with early menopause. If in addition, you have exercised very little, used cigarettes regularly, abused alcohol, consumed a diet poor in calcium during your formative years, or used certain medications such as corticosteroids, your risk factors are increased. I'll bet your mother was a smoker, as many of the business women of her day affected the habit, and spent more time at her desk than on an exercise cycle, for who knew of the benefits of regular physical activity then? Hopefully it is not too late for you to change those life style factors that will diminish the possibility of you developing this condition, and even now begin to offset your inherited risks. One of the problems with osteoporosis is that you don't know you have it until the bones become so weakened that fractures occur with little external trauma. Still there is much you can do. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.