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You are Here: Home Page > Chronic Diseases and Conditions > Osteoporosis Education a Priority in New York State  

Osteoporosis Education a Priority in New York State

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become thin and weak, often resulting in fractures (broken bones). Fractures can cause debilitating pain, reduced mobility, and a loss of quality of life.

In New York State alone, at least 3 million women and men (age 50 and over) either have osteoporosis or are at significant risk of developing osteoporosis. Are you at risk? The good news is that, as a result of research, we now have effective ways to help you prevent, diagnose and treat this sometimes disabling disease.

Osteoporosis education is the key to helping you make choices necessary to achieve healthy bones and wellness for a lifetime. In 1997, Governor George Pataki signed the Osteoporosis Education Bill (New York State Public Health Law 2707). This bill established the New York State Osteoporosis Prevention Education Program (NYSOPEP) within the New York State Department of Health. This educational initiative makes it possible for all New Yorkers (the general public and healthcare professionals) to learn about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.

NYSOPEP provides education about the causes of osteoporosis, the value of prevention and early detection, and options for treatment. NYSOPEP information is accurate, current and research-based.

NYSOPEP Regional Centers were selected to lead osteoporosis education as a service to the citizens of New York. In order to meet local needs, NYSOPEP Centers have been established conveniently throughtout New York State (see below). Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw, New York, coordinates the NYSOPEP Regional Centers. Helen Hayes Hospital is a New York Presbyterian Hospital affiliate, operated by the New York State Health Department and has been recognized as a Specialized Center for Osteoporosis Research by the National Institute of Health since 1987.

For more information about how you can promote healthy bones and prevent osteoporosis, contact your nearest NYSOPEP Regional Center. The NYSOPEP Regional Center will provide a calendar of community and professional osteoporosis education programs and osteoporosis support

Learn More About Osteoporosis

• The Facts About Osteoporosis
• Promoting Healthy Bones
• Calcium and Healthy Bones
• The Food Pyramid
• Worksheet to Estimate Total Daily Calcium Intake
• Commonly Asked Questions about Calcium Supplements
• Vitamin D and Healthy Bones
• Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for Postmenopausal Women
• Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for Premenopausal Women
• Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for Men
• All About Bone Mineral Density Tests
• Taking Control to Make Your Bones Healthy
• FDA-Approved Medications for Osteoporosis Prevention and/or Treatment
• NYSOPEP Support and Education Groups
• Osteoporosis and People with Disabilities