Preventing Osteoporosis: Questions for the Doctor

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that makes bones weaker and more likely to break. Anyone can get osteoporosis, but it’s most common in older women.

Ask your doctor or nurse about steps you can take to prevent weak bones and lower your risk for osteoporosis. If you're a woman age 65 or older, schedule a bone density test. And if you're age 64 or younger and you've gone through menopause, ask your doctor if you need to get a bone density test.

What do I ask the doctor?

When you visit the doctor, it helps to have questions written down ahead of time. You can also ask a family member or friend to go with you to take notes.

Print this list of questions and take it to your next appointment.

• Am I at risk for osteoporosis?
• What puts me at risk for osteoporosis?
• What can I do to help prevent osteoporosis?
• What steps can I take to help prevent falls and injuries?
• Am I taking any medicines that cause bone loss?
• How much calcium and vitamin D do I need each day?
• Do you recommend that I get a bone density test?
• If I have osteoporosis, what are my treatment options?
• Can you give me some information about osteoporosis to take home with me?