Which statement about osteoporosis prevention is true?

Which statement about osteoporosis prevention is true?

• A. Calcium and vitamin D intake with weight-bearing exercise help prevent osteoporosis.
• B. Menopausal hormone therapy is recommended for primary prevention of osteoporosis.
• C. Only medication can prevent osteoporosis.
• D. Bone density cannot be preserved with lifestyle changes.

Answer: (A)

The essential idea is that osteoporosis prevention relies on practical lifestyle measures that strengthen bone and reduce fracture risk. Calcium provides the mineral needed for bone structure, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports healthy bone remodeling. When you add regular weight-bearing and resistance exercise, the bones receive a mechanical stimulus that promotes bone formation and helps slow age-related bone loss. Put together, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake plus consistent weight-bearing activity is a foundational, nonpharmacologic approach to preventing osteoporosis, suitable for many individuals as a first step. Other options aren’t the best choices for primary prevention. Hormone therapy can protect bone but carries risks and isn’t recommended solely for osteoporosis prevention in the general population. Saying only medication can prevent osteoporosis overlooks how lifestyle changes themselves influence bone health, and it’s true that bone density and fracture risk can be affected—and often improved—through nutrition and activity.

The essential idea is that osteoporosis prevention relies on practical lifestyle measures that strengthen bone and reduce fracture risk. Calcium provides the mineral needed for bone structure, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports healthy bone remodeling. When you add regular weight-bearing and resistance exercise, the bones receive a mechanical stimulus that promotes bone formation and helps slow age-related bone loss. Put together, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake plus consistent weight-bearing activity is a foundational, nonpharmacologic approach to preventing osteoporosis, suitable for many individuals as a first step.

Other options aren’t the best choices for primary prevention. Hormone therapy can protect bone but carries risks and isn’t recommended solely for osteoporosis prevention in the general population. Saying only medication can prevent osteoporosis overlooks how lifestyle changes themselves influence bone health, and it’s true that bone density and fracture risk can be affected—and often improved—through nutrition and activity.