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I heard that Hispanics don't have to worry about brittle bones and fractures from osteoporosis. I'm a little suspicious about this because it isn't what my doctor told me. Is it true?

Anyone of any racial/ethnic background who is 50 years old or older can develop osteoporosis. The older we get, the greater our risk. Hispanic men seem to have a lower risk for osteoporosis than others. Only about three per cent of Hispanic males over 50 are affected by osteoporosis. This is compared with seven per cent for white males and five per cent for African American men. The risk of osteoporosis is higher in Hispanic women and especially Hispanic women who have diabetes. And their risk of developing diabetes is twice the risk of Caucasian (white) women. So that tells us this particular group of Hispanic women must be monitored carefully. In general, anyone of any ethnic background with a diet low in calcium and/or high in caffeine and alcohol has an increased risk of developing osteoporosis. Other risk factors include advancing age, the use of tobacco products, overuse of antacids (containing aluminum), poor diet/nutrition, and taking certain medications. Don't make the assumption that you are not at risk for osteoporosis. If you are over 50, 60, and especially 70 or 80, talk to your physician. Find out about your risk factors and what you can do to reduce your risk. Early prevention is the key to avoiding fractures, loss of independence, and disability often caused by osteoporosis.

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