TODAY women are living longer and as we get older our bones get weaker.

Osteoporosis affects one in three women over the age of 50 and fracture following trauma is often the only indication of an underlying problem.

This is why it is often called ‘the silent disease’.

Victims may suffer from deformity, pain, loss of independence and premature death.

Of those who suffer a hip fracture, three in ten will die as a result.

Risk factors include; being post menopausal, early menopause or hysterectomy, family history, steroid based medications, digestive illnesses, low calcium diet, alcohol consumption, rheumatoid arthritis and other medical conditions and low body mass.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent the development of the disease, such as weight-bearing exercise and eating calciumrich foods.

Treatment for those who already have it has been shown to be effective in strengthening the bone that still remains.

Sessions take place on September 12 at Taunton St James Church and Wellington Council Offices and on September 13 at Minehead Baptist Church. For details call 0845-2246784.