Osteoporosis and Strength Training

Osteoporosis is a major public health problem that will likely escalate as the population ages. Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration leading to a reduction in bone strength, resulting in an increased susceptibility to fracture. In the United States, prevalence is projected to increase from 10–12 million individuals older than 50 years to nearly 14 million individuals by 2020. In addition, an estimated 47 million individuals with osteopenia (low bone mass) are at risk for future osteoporosis. Current estimates suggest that 30% to 50% of women and 15% to 30% of men will suffer a fracture due to osteoporosis sometime in their lifetime. Approximately, 1.5 million fractures occur in the United States each year. Fractures occur most frequently at the hip, ...