Summary : According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, Asian women are at an especially high risk for developing osteoporosis. The prevalence of vertebral fractures among Asians seems to be as high as that among Caucasians, while Asian women generally have lower hip fracture rates than Caucasians. However, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in hip fracture incidence in some parts of the Far East. It is estimated that by the year 2050 approximately half of the expected 6.3 million hip fractures worldwide will occur in Asia. A number of factors put Asian-Americans at higher risk for bone fractures. These include: a) bone structure; b) low calcium intake; c) lactose intolerance. To help prevent osteoporosis, the National Osteoporosis Foundation offers these guidelines: 1) eat a balanced, varied diet rich in calcium. While dairy foods significantly contribute calcium, other foods like salmon and sardines, broccoli, spinach, and fortified orange juice and cereal are rich in calcium; 2) exercise regularly and participate in weight-bearing activities. Walking for 30 minutes three times a week is practical and easy; 3) use alcohol in moderation. For most women that means one beer, a glass of wine or 2 ounces of spirits a day. The National Osteoporosis Foundation also encourages women to discuss with their doctor the possibility of having bone density measured at the onset of menopause. This safe, painless test can help detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs and predict the likelihood of fracturing in the future. For those who already have osteoporosis, there are two main treatment options which emphasize decreasing the structural breakdown of bone, including estrogen replacement therapy and calcitonin (a hormone) therapy. Other treatments which build bone and slow bone loss are currently under investigation by the Food and Drug Administration. While there is no cure yet for osteoporosis, a preventive lifesyle can contribute to reducing the risk of fractures. Building strong bones, especially before the age of 35, can be the best defense against developing osteoporosis and a healthy lifestyle can be critically important for keeping bones strong.