Myth of Osteoporosis (Book) Author: Gillian Sanson According to Gillian Sanson, misperceptions and controversies surround osteoporosis – from the diagnosis and treatment of the disease to even the definition of the disease itself. Geared toward consumers and physicians alike, Sanson’s work conveys the experiences of her family members, many of whom have varying degrees of osteoporosis, and presents case studies of women she has counselled. She bases her work on published studies from leading scientific establishments. The book is divided into three sections. Section I, Major Myths, covers: the myth of risk (that every woman over the age of 50 is at risk for osteoporosis); the myth of diagnosis (that diagnosis of osteoporosis is accurate, reliable and meaningful); and the myth of causality (that age-related bone loss is the cause of deadly fractures in the elderly. Section II, Treatment Myths, provides an overview of drug treatments and then debunks two myths: that osteoporosis can be safely treated and prevented with drugs; and that high calcium intake alone prevents osteoporosis, whether from dairy or supplements. Section III is entitled Creating Bone Health and includes diet and exercise suggestions for young and old women alike. Of particular interest is the author’s discussion of how the World Health Organization’s controversial decision to change the definition of osteoporosis effectively labelled millions of well women as having osteoporosis. The book casts doubt on the bone densitometry technology that supposedly screens for osteoporosis. Sanson also reveals the paradox of many current osteoporosis drug treatments. According to her, they do not benefit the majority of people taking them, and, in some cases, may exacerbate a patient’s condition. The Myth of Osteoporosis offers reassurance for women who believe that osteoporosis and its accompanying fragility and loss of independence are inevitable parts of aging. Sanson aims to help women take control of their lives, celebrate their bodies, and improve their health. Notes and an index are included. Gillian Sanson is a women’s health advocate and educator. Editor’s Note: An earlier edition of this book, entitled The Osteoporosis 'Epidemic' – Well Women and the Marketing of Fear was published in New Zealand in 2001. Purpose:  Consumer information/support; Health information; Practitioner information Geographic Origin:  United States Language of Resource:  English Groups:  Adult women; Middle-aged women; Older women Publisher:  Ann Arbor, MI: MCD Century Publications Date Published:  2003 Last Reviewed by Women's Health Matters:  June 04, 2008