According to iVillage Women's Health, broken bones kill more women than breast cancer. In fact,

More than 10 million Americans, mostly women, over the age of 50 have osteoporosis; 34 million are estimated to have osteopenia.

Osteopenia is

a thinning of the bones not severe enough to be classified as osteoporosis.

About.com's Orthopedic Guide lists several methods of treatment may help ward off osteoporosis and the danger of broken bones. These include:

• Exercise - preferably weight-bearing, exercise that puts stress on the bones.
  


• nutrition - Drinking milk and the use of other dairy products is, of course, a source of calcium. However, to get all the calcium necessary, supplements are advised.
  


• Medication - Several medications for the treatment of osteoporosis are available. Talk to you doctor about what's best for you.

If you are a victim of osteoporosis, avoid falls. Even a stumble could snap a thin and fragile bone. Don't take chances. A broken hip, especially in an older woman, could be disastrous.