Osteoporosis: A self-care check list for women

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review what is commonly known about osteoporosis and emphasize a self-help check list for the prevention of this condition. It is reasonable to assume that women, since they are the primary users of health services, may be more apt to increase health related behaviors which may lessen their chance or slow the acceleration process of osteoporosis. Transition from a disease-oriented to a health-oriented focus implies that the occupational health nurse serve in the 'helper role' to assist employees help themselves to stay well. Personal lifestyles can influence one's health status over one's lifetime. Individuals can make informed decisions to alter their lifestyle when they know what is required. Individuals can increase their calcium intake when they are made to recognize the deficits, the long-range consequences of such deficits, and what is to be gained by securing adequate amounts of calcium and proper exercise. Women can influence their health status as well as that of their children.