Preventing Osteoporosis: Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper's Preventive Medicine Program

Cooper's second book in his ``preventive medicine program'' adopts an approach similar to that of his bestselling Controlling Cholesterol : it focuses on a serious, largely avoidable disease well known but not fully explained to the general public. As Cooper observes, contrary to popular belief, men and women of all ages are prone to the disease, though some--cigarette smokers, drug users, endurance athletes, sufferers of eating disorders, et al.--are at higher risk. In fact, everyone who ages risks osteoporosis, and with the specter of brittle bones and limited mobility before them, will absorb his sensible, scientifically sound information on how to achieve peak bone mass by age 40 and retain it via diet, weight-bearing exercise and adjustments in lifestyle. Though Cooper assesses diagnosis and available treatments (ranging from controversial estrogen replacement to the use of calcium supplements), he stresses the benefits of exercise and diet, and includes detailed programs for each. Of limited value to those already afflicted, the book will help younger readers at high risk. Author tour. (Mar.)