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Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease that poses a major health threat for nearly 45 million Americans. The disease is characterized by a decrease in bone mass, which in turn increases the susceptibility of bone to fracture (Encarta 2001). The disease affects approximately 10 million Americans, and its harmful effects are seen in about 1.5 million fractures each year (MayoClinic.com 1). As a result, much scientific research has been conducted to obtain a better understanding of the disease. Thus far, research has allowed scientists to identify various forms of the disease and their respective associated factors, which has then allowed for effective preventive and treatment methods that may eventually lead to a cure for the disease. Osteoporosis primarily affects women, the elderly, Caucasians, smokers, alcoholics, individuals who are calcium deficient, those who suffer from depression, those who have do not exercise regularly, and individuals with a family history of the disease (MayoClinic.com 3-4). Though an established method of diagnosing osteoporosis has not been determined, a medical history, physical exam, spinal radiograph, and densitometry exam are useful tools in determining a high risk of bone fracture (Marcus