Health: Bones of Contention

Confusion surrounds the subject of osteoporosis. That is especially troubling for women, who face the risk of bone loss decades earlier than men do. Should they take calcium pills? Are dairy products the best dietary source of calcium? Are prescription medications safe and effective? To my mind, most of these are open questions. Osteoporosis is strongly influenced by genetics. One day we may be able to identify those at highest risk and urge them to take preventive measures. In the meantime, last month's Women's Health Initiative (WHI) report suggested that calcium pills offer only modest, if any, protection. I believe that...

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